02/09/2008

Build Sustainable Future, Urges Ministers

Sustainability is key to ensuring that the commercial infrastructure being built in Northern Ireland will serve generations to come.

That was the message given today by Stormont Junior Ministers Gerry Kelly and Jeffrey Donaldson when the MLAs were speaking at the announcement of the finalists in the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) Specify Construction Excellence Awards 2008 in Belfast.

This important 'industry recognition' for the most significant work undertaken in the construction sector was welcomed by the Ministers.

They said the aim of the competition is to promote excellence and to give recognition to those companies who are achieving the highest standards in construction.

Jeffrey Donaldson said: "In recent years Belfast has been transformed with landmark construction playing its part by sending out a clear message that we are open for business, and acting as a physical manifestation of the positive change experienced by the city and throughout Northern Ireland in recent years.

"Growing the economy is the key aim of the Programme for Government. The national and global economy has taken a battering over the last number of months.

"Ensuring the delivery of the PFG commitments and the Investment strategy for Northern Ireland will go some way to continue to provide valuable work for the industry. Landmark redevelopments also give us new and innovative opportunities.

"Clearly, the Northern Ireland construction industry has the skills and ability to deliver top class projects and I look forward to the announcement of the winners later in the year."

Gerry Kelly said: "The competition provides a great opportunity to showcase the best of our local construction industry and to celebrate its achievements.

"This is particularly important given the difficulties the house building sector is currently experiencing with the down turn in the housing market, noting that the finalists included many examples of best practice in housing, general construction, infrastructure, health and safety, innovation, training and sustainability.

See: CEF NI Awards Finalist To Be Announced Next Week

(PR)(BMcC)

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