Council gets latest update from Invest NI

Mr Alistair Hamilton, Chief Executiveof Invest NI provided information on thei activities, stating over 90% of investment from the organisation goes to local small businesses.

Current export trends for NI companies were explained, as well as information on Invest NI’s international trade programme.

The Boosting Business programme, which aims to assist failing businesses or businesses facing economic or cash-flow difficulties, was explained. This has included among other things accelerating loan funds, assisting in the creation of new jobs and enhancing support in Research and Development areas.

Dr Vicky Kell from Invest NI outlined the challenges in exporting to foreign markets and developing opportunities to do so.

Lisburn City Council’s Economic Development Unit runs many assist programmes for small to medium sized businesses in the City area and the Assistant Director of the Service, Mr Paul McCormick and the Director of the Service, Mr Colin McClintock were in attendance for the Invest NI presentation.

Various questions were put to Mr Hamilton and Dr Kell from councillors and the Mayor, Councillor Brian Heading, thanked Invest NI for attending.