DUP Welcomes Commitment To City Deals

The DUP's Gavin Robinson has welcomed the Prime Minister's commitment to progressing City Deals in Northern Ireland.

The East Belfast MP raised the issue during Prime Ministers Questions today, 25 April, in the House of Commons.

Speaking afterwards he said: "The Government, and the Prime Minister have recognised the need for Northern Ireland to receive an economic boost. The Confidence and Supply Agreement we reached with the Conservative Party includes ultrafast broadband investment and City Deals for Belfast and others.

"I would hope the Prime Minister will listen to my call for progress to be made on these issues in time for the Autumn Budget. The reassertion of her commitment today is welcome and particularly that Sinn Fein's refusal to form an Executive will not be a barrier to progress.

I have been very encouraged by the detailed work engaged in by the six member Councils of the Belfast region who are working together towards a city deal. I believe that work will also be recognised by government and hope it can progress swiftly.

"The investment in broadband agreed as part of the Confidence and Supply Agreement can further benefit all regions of Northern Ireland and ensure we can transform this part of the United Kingdom. It is investments such as this, for the good of everyone in Northern Ireland, which have been the hallmark of our focus with Government. We will continue to seek to deliver for all the people of Belfast and across the whole of Northern Ireland."

(MH)