The DUP's economy spokesman, Phillip Brett MLA, has welcomed confirmation that Bank of America has secured a new Belfast headquarters at City Quays, calling the decision another major endorsement of Northern Ireland as a place to invest, grow and create jobs.

Mr Brett said: "This announcement is hugely positive news for Belfast and for Northern Ireland.

"Bank of America's decision to establish its new office at City Quays is a significant vote of confidence in our economy, our skilled workforce and our future.

"This is one of the largest office investments Belfast has seen in recent years and reflects the growing international confidence in Northern Ireland as a location for high-value financial and professional services. "The company's ambition to create up to 1,000 jobs will provide life-changing opportunities for local people and further strengthen Belfast's position as a leading financial services hub within the United Kingdom.

"Per head of population, Northern Ireland continues to be one of the most successful parts of the UK at attracting foreign direct investment. This announcement builds on that success and demonstrates that international businesses recognise the strengths we have to offer.

"Crucially, financial services are outside the scope of the Protocol. Despite repeated claims by others, the Economy Minister has yet to identify a single example of foreign direct investment secured because of the Protocol. Today's announcement reinforces the fact that businesses invest here because of our talented people, competitive business environment and our place within the United Kingdom."