05/03/2004
USCA chairman hits out at local politics
The Chairman of the Ulster Society of Chartered Accountants has likened local politics to being forced to watch a daily re-run of Groundhog Day.
John Hannaway was speaking to over 400 guests at the Society’s Annual Dinner last night were he stressed the importance of Northern Ireland’s political structures in stimulating the local economy, and the importance of the economy in ensuring lasting peace.
“Corporate Northern Ireland needs to take a chance," Mr Hannaway said. "We must restrain the reckless chancer, but also cheer on the calculated entrepreneur. We need a more enlightened attitude to risk, a business friendly environment and political stability as the foundation for economic growth. The proper combination of risk taking and risk management is essential.”
“Regrettably there appear to be few cheerleaders for business and the economy amongst our local politicians. Yet, these are vital constituents of any lasting peace."
Mr Hannaway hit out at local politicians saying the Northern Ireland Assembly has spent more time in suspension than it had debating the issues that are confronting the people throughout the province.
He added: "I don’t pretend politics is easy. Balancing economic growth with social inclusion is a tough call. Regenerating the economy is like a high jump where the bar is always raised - while local politics is like being forced to watch a daily re-run of Groundhog Day.”
Guest speakers at the Ulster Society’s Annual Dinner included Chartered Accountant and Chief Executive of the English Football Association, Mark Palios and Alan Cleary, renowned after-dinner speaker.
(MB)
John Hannaway was speaking to over 400 guests at the Society’s Annual Dinner last night were he stressed the importance of Northern Ireland’s political structures in stimulating the local economy, and the importance of the economy in ensuring lasting peace.
“Corporate Northern Ireland needs to take a chance," Mr Hannaway said. "We must restrain the reckless chancer, but also cheer on the calculated entrepreneur. We need a more enlightened attitude to risk, a business friendly environment and political stability as the foundation for economic growth. The proper combination of risk taking and risk management is essential.”
“Regrettably there appear to be few cheerleaders for business and the economy amongst our local politicians. Yet, these are vital constituents of any lasting peace."
Mr Hannaway hit out at local politicians saying the Northern Ireland Assembly has spent more time in suspension than it had debating the issues that are confronting the people throughout the province.
He added: "I don’t pretend politics is easy. Balancing economic growth with social inclusion is a tough call. Regenerating the economy is like a high jump where the bar is always raised - while local politics is like being forced to watch a daily re-run of Groundhog Day.”
Guest speakers at the Ulster Society’s Annual Dinner included Chartered Accountant and Chief Executive of the English Football Association, Mark Palios and Alan Cleary, renowned after-dinner speaker.
(MB)
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