19/03/2014

Minister Meets With CEO Of The Aventas Group

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster today met with the Paul O'Brien, CEO of the Aventas Group to discuss the company's contribution to the economic growth in the Fermanagh area.

Speaking after the meeting Arlene Foster said: "I welcome the Aventas Group's continued commitment to doing business in Fermanagh and the company's importance as a major employer in the local area cannot be understated.

"Today's meeting was extremely useful and informative. I was particularly encouraged to hear how the company has invested in capital projects and developed export initiatives in order to help retain jobs.

"Going forward, my Department and Invest Northern Ireland will continue to work with the Aventas Group, to help develop the company's operations, whilst continuing to support efforts to grow the business."

During the meeting the Minister updated the company on plans to extend the natural gas network to Fermanagh and Derrylin. Arlene Foster continued: "The extension of the gas network to the west will allow up to 40,000 new customer connections and has the potential to generate an additional £200million of economic benefits, from energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

"It will benefit local businesses as it will allow them to avail of the lower costs, convenience, and efficiency which natural gas provides. The availability of natural gas will also help to lower manufacturing and production costs for businesses, such as the Aventas Group, thus improving their competitiveness."

(CD/MH)

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