09/09/2015

L'Derry Businesses To Help Drive Economic Growth

The business community in L'Derry has a key role to play in driving regional economic growth, Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell has said.

Addressing the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce Lunch, the Minister said continued partnership would lay a strong foundation for future prosperity.

Minister Bell said: "The reform of local government will give councils a greater opportunity to shape how enterprise is supported in their local communities. They will be directly involved in encouraging business start-ups, establishing social enterprises and providing access to enterprise support for under-represented groups.

"Invest Northern Ireland, the Chamber and other local stakeholders have been working with the new council to develop its Integrated Economic Strategy, a strategy that has been co-funded by Invest NI. This is particularly important against the backdrop of a changing landscape for economic development, a challenging business environment and the new round of European funding."

Minister Bell said Tourism NI would continue to support and promote the region’s visitor experience.

He said: "In the current year, and one in which funding has been under severe pressure, Tourism NI has continued to ensure the continuing success of events such as the Jazz and Big Band Festival; The Maiden City Festival; Music City/Celtronic; The Hughes Insurance Foyle Cup; Carnival of Colours; and the colourful Bank of the Foyle Halloween Carnival."

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