Kelvin just one factor for firms to consider

East Londonderry MLA John Dallat asked the Minister what steps Invest NI has taken to promote and maximise the benefits of the Kelvin project as a facility for creating new investment and jobs.

She replied: "The existing telecommunications infrastructure in Northern Ireland, enhanced by the new direct international link (Project Kelvin), is considered to be world class. Invest NI uses the benefits that the Northern Ireland telecoms infrastructure and the new direct international link delivers to position Northern Ireland as a location capable of providing solutions to the business needs of new and existing investors.

"Northern Ireland's telecoms infrastructure is promoted to potential investors in overseas markets via a number of channels including Invest NI's corporate website, through sector brochures, presentations to potential investors, during journalist visits to NI and during inward visits by potential investors.

"However it is important to note that whilst the telecommunications infrastructure is important to many potential investors, it remains only one area of consideration when choosing a location."