Joined Up Government Approach Required To Stimulate Econimic Growth

The need for all sectors of government to work together to support economic recovery and inward investment was the message delivered today by Alban Maginness MLA, Chair of the Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Enterprise Trade and Investment.

Speaking at the Agenda NI Planning and the Economy Seminar, Mr Maginness highlighted the many challenges facing our economy and noted that government as a whole must act as a driver and not as a barrier to ensure sustained economic growth and development.

Commenting on the Planning Service in particular and underlining recommendations contained in the 2009 Barnett Report on the Independent Review of Economic Policy, Mr. Maginness said: “The Planning Service has acknowledged the significant contribution it can make to economic growth. It is therefore vitally important that it not only recognises but implements the recommendations contained in the Barnett review to assist economic recovery and stimulate greater inward investment.

“This will require the implementation of strategies and processes that can deliver consistent and timely planning advice and decisions. Planning Service must adopt and sustain a positive attitude to business and economic development; and an enhanced understanding of the needs of other departments and government bodies.”