Newly published research reports will play a key role in shaping future policies aimed at addressing economic disparities across Northern Ireland, according to Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald.

The Minister shared her insights while attending an event that presented the main findings from research on Regional Balance, carried out by the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre and Maureen O'Reilly.

"Regional Balance is something that is very important to me as Economy Minister," Dr Archibald stated. "It is one my four strategic objectives and is being mainstreamed into every decision, every policy and every initiative taken by my Department."

She emphasised the human element of these economic gaps: "Regional economic disparities are not just numbers on a chart—they represent real communities, real people, and real potential that remains untapped." The research clearly indicates that improving regional balance requires genuine empowerment of local governance structures, supported by sufficient resources to drive economic development and coherent central policies. This understanding is the driving force behind the creation of Local Economic Partnerships.

Minister Archibald concluded: "Regional balance requires collaboration across departments, with local councils, businesses, and communities. It demands innovation, resilience, and above all, a shared belief that every part of the north matters."

The ‘Delivering balance regional growth in NI'' report is available on the UUEPC website.

The ‘Infrastructure to Promote and Support Subregional Business Start Up & Growth: A Review of Approaches and Good Practice' report is available on the Department for the Economy's website.