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09/12/2003
Development Forum push for economic progress
Members of the Economic Development Forum (EDF) are determined to work together and pool their collective resources to strengthen the local economy.
This is according to Enterprise Minister, Ian Pearson who was speaking today at the 18th meeting of EDF at the offices of the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) in Belfast.
Top of the agenda was a report on the work of the Forum’s Enterprise Sub-group which is chaired by Ian McMorris, Chairman of the CBI.
The Sub-group was set up in July 2003 to take action on a number of specified enterprise issues where the collective influence of the partnership might be brought to bear
Speaking at today’s meeting, Mr Pearson said: “Northern Ireland must have a competitive advantage if the Forum’s vision of significantly strengthening the local economy by the year 2010 is to become a reality.
"In recent months, the Enterprise Sub-group has examined a number of specific enterprise issues, including the need for differential fiscal incentives for Northern Ireland; research into the extent and impact of shadow economy activity in Northern Ireland; and proposals for hosting a major business summit in Northern Ireland during 2004.
“As I made clear in my speech to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland, my view is that a ‘one size fits all’ policy in tax terms is not necessarily appropriate and we should be discussing regional tax breaks, including differential regional company tax rates, as potential mechanisms for stimulating enterprise and growth."
Also at today’s meeting, members heard presentations from the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) on the Review of Further Education and the Essential Skills Strategy and received updates on the implementation of the Regional Transportation Strategy and the work of the Employability Taskforce.
A representative from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) also presented a paper on the Mid-term Review of Common Agricultural Policy.
(MB)
This is according to Enterprise Minister, Ian Pearson who was speaking today at the 18th meeting of EDF at the offices of the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) in Belfast.
Top of the agenda was a report on the work of the Forum’s Enterprise Sub-group which is chaired by Ian McMorris, Chairman of the CBI.
The Sub-group was set up in July 2003 to take action on a number of specified enterprise issues where the collective influence of the partnership might be brought to bear
Speaking at today’s meeting, Mr Pearson said: “Northern Ireland must have a competitive advantage if the Forum’s vision of significantly strengthening the local economy by the year 2010 is to become a reality.
"In recent months, the Enterprise Sub-group has examined a number of specific enterprise issues, including the need for differential fiscal incentives for Northern Ireland; research into the extent and impact of shadow economy activity in Northern Ireland; and proposals for hosting a major business summit in Northern Ireland during 2004.
“As I made clear in my speech to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland, my view is that a ‘one size fits all’ policy in tax terms is not necessarily appropriate and we should be discussing regional tax breaks, including differential regional company tax rates, as potential mechanisms for stimulating enterprise and growth."
Also at today’s meeting, members heard presentations from the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) on the Review of Further Education and the Essential Skills Strategy and received updates on the implementation of the Regional Transportation Strategy and the work of the Employability Taskforce.
A representative from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) also presented a paper on the Mid-term Review of Common Agricultural Policy.
(MB)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
