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17/05/2002
SDLP back move towards adoption of euro
The Finance Minister Dr Sean Farren has welcomed the strong indication that the Labour government may be moving closer to recommending entry into the Eurozone.
Dr Farren said: “The SDLP has long been committed to the Euro and believes that Northern Ireland increasingly loses out the longer we remain outside the Eurozone.
"We have seen the success with which the Euro has been introduced by 12 of the EU states and already the Euro is becoming a common currency in many border towns. As the tourist season advances many other parts of Northern Ireland will also become very familiar with the new currency.
"Businesses trading with the South and with other Eurozone states are also adjusting to the Euro. By remaining outside the zone unnecessary exchange charges continue to add costs to goods and services. Taken with the overall value of sterling this makes trading with Eurozone countries more costly than it would be if we were within the Eurozone. The sooner the decision is taken to recommend that we adopt the Euro the better it will be for our trade and business.”
However, the revelation on a possible imminent euro move by Downing Street has been denied amid a furore surrounding a disclosure in lobby by Transport Secretary Stephen Byers that a referendum on the issue may be pending.
In a statement issued by Downing Street it was claimed that there would be no change in government policy until five established tests set by the Treasury department were met.
The off-the-record remarks by Stephen Byers have whipped up intense speculation that the Labour government may be preparing to soften if not change its stance on the single European currency.
(SP)
Dr Farren said: “The SDLP has long been committed to the Euro and believes that Northern Ireland increasingly loses out the longer we remain outside the Eurozone.
"We have seen the success with which the Euro has been introduced by 12 of the EU states and already the Euro is becoming a common currency in many border towns. As the tourist season advances many other parts of Northern Ireland will also become very familiar with the new currency.
"Businesses trading with the South and with other Eurozone states are also adjusting to the Euro. By remaining outside the zone unnecessary exchange charges continue to add costs to goods and services. Taken with the overall value of sterling this makes trading with Eurozone countries more costly than it would be if we were within the Eurozone. The sooner the decision is taken to recommend that we adopt the Euro the better it will be for our trade and business.”
However, the revelation on a possible imminent euro move by Downing Street has been denied amid a furore surrounding a disclosure in lobby by Transport Secretary Stephen Byers that a referendum on the issue may be pending.
In a statement issued by Downing Street it was claimed that there would be no change in government policy until five established tests set by the Treasury department were met.
The off-the-record remarks by Stephen Byers have whipped up intense speculation that the Labour government may be preparing to soften if not change its stance on the single European currency.
(SP)
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13 February 2002
Farren congratulates Republic on Euro changeover
Sean Farren, the SDLP's North Antrim Assembly Member and Minister of Finance and Personnel, has said that the sooner Northern Ireland is fully part of the euro and able to enjoy all its benefits the better it would be for the province.
Farren congratulates Republic on Euro changeover
Sean Farren, the SDLP's North Antrim Assembly Member and Minister of Finance and Personnel, has said that the sooner Northern Ireland is fully part of the euro and able to enjoy all its benefits the better it would be for the province.
17 June 2002
Seminars examine reality of living in the eurozone
With Northern Ireland currently exporting around one fifth of regional product to eurozone countries the seminar 'Living with the euro – the Reality for Businesses in Northern Ireland' offers a valuable insight into business in the eurozone.
Seminars examine reality of living in the eurozone
With Northern Ireland currently exporting around one fifth of regional product to eurozone countries the seminar 'Living with the euro – the Reality for Businesses in Northern Ireland' offers a valuable insight into business in the eurozone.
12 June 2002
Stock gloom brightens euro trading
The euro has climbed to an 18-month high against the US dollar as concern grows about the state of the US economy. With US stocks in decline heavy share trading on Tuesday ended with markets again depressed at fears over continued downward profit forecasts and extended lead times for a sustained recovery in the US economy.
Stock gloom brightens euro trading
The euro has climbed to an 18-month high against the US dollar as concern grows about the state of the US economy. With US stocks in decline heavy share trading on Tuesday ended with markets again depressed at fears over continued downward profit forecasts and extended lead times for a sustained recovery in the US economy.
12 March 2015
Belfast Firm Scoops Business For It's Free'ist Products From Spinney's
GM Marketing in Belfast has won business for its Free'ist sugar and gluten-free products from Spinney's, with assistance from Invest Northern Ireland.
Belfast Firm Scoops Business For It's Free'ist Products From Spinney's
GM Marketing in Belfast has won business for its Free'ist sugar and gluten-free products from Spinney's, with assistance from Invest Northern Ireland.
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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.
