Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has outlined how her Department is delivering practical support to establish Greater Newry as a sustainable economic powerhouse.

The Minister detailed the plans while speaking at a Newry Chamber Fireside Event that focused on driving economic opportunities across the region.

Minister Kimmins said: "I am happy to be part of this discussion and as local elected representative I know how uniquely important this area's location is on the Belfast-Dublin corridor.

"The increase in frequency of the Belfast-Dublin Enterprise service has seen a substantial growth in passenger numbers and has made rail a far more convenient option for commuting between Belfast and Dublin. "The recent announcement of investment of £548m for a major upgrade of the Enterprise train fleet which includes around £200 million from my Department will deliver a transformed cross-border rail service, with faster, more reliable journeys between Belfast and Dublin, while also supporting the decarbonisation of our transport network.

"My commitment to the A1 junctions and Southern Relief Road is unwavering because the delivery of both projects are hugely beneficial for the Greater Newry area and I will do all that I can to ensure their delivery.

"Finally, I continue to work tirelessly to address the challenges with our wastewater network. I was delighted when NI Water announced that it had found new and innovative solutions to unlocking wastewater connections in the Newry area. This will enable development in Newry for up to 10 years based on currently identified projects. This includes capacity for approximately 400 new connections across both housing and business premises."