North Antrim TUV MLA Jim Allister
TUV Party Leader Jim Allister MLA has called out Invest NI on its level of assistance that has been provided to businesses and the local economy across North Antrim.
As part of the Department for the Economy, Invest NI's role is to 'grow the local economy' by helping new and existing businesses to compete internationally, and by attracting new investment to Northern Ireland. The body says it provides 'strong government support for business by effectively delivering the Government’s economic development strategies'.
The North Antrim MLA was commenting after writing to the Department for the Economy enquiring of the financial assistance provided by Invest NI to companies in the North Antrim constituency, in each of the last 10 years; and detailing the percentage that this represents of the total assistance provided throughout Northern Ireland.
Responding to Mr Allister's question, Economy Minister Conor Murphy's response revealed what the North Antrim MLA described as 'below par' support across the constituency.
Invest NI Financial Assistance Offered in North Antrim Parliamentary Constituency and % of Invest NI Assistance Allocated by Parliamentary Constituency Area (2013-14 to 2022-23).
Commenting, North Antrim TUV MLA Jim Allister said:
“The attached figures from the Economy department confirm that North Antrim has not been getting its fair share of Invest NI assistance.
“Though representing over 5% of NI’s population, in 22/23 support for North Antrim business amounted to only 2% of the NI total. £1.6m is a tiny amount when spread across business in North Antrim. For each of the last 6 years our level of support has been below par.
“Once more it is clear that the Belfast-centric Invest NI is not delivering adequately across the Province.
“I will continue to fight for fair and equal treat for North Antrim.”