2 December 2008 Robinson and McGuinness Address Corporate America
First Minister Rt.Hon Peter D Robinson MP MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA have told some of the largest and most profitable companies in the United States that Northern Ireland is still open for business.
Speaking at the Fortune 500 dinner hosted by the US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland, Paula Dobriansky, the ministers reminded corporate America that a wealth of excellent investment opportunities awaited them in Northern Ireland.
Mr Robinson said: “Northern Ireland remains open and ready for business. The Executive is committed to growing our economy and to offering an open and welcoming environment for inward investment. Our country is a viable location for investors, offering a wealth of unique opportunities.
“I firmly believe that Northern Ireland offers a range of specialist and niche skills that investors can take advantage of. Northern Ireland is an economy in transition, we are aware of the challenges we face but we will face them and ensure Northern Ireland’s place in the world.”
Mr McGuinness said: “Not only are we open and ready for business, we have the skills and location to build business. Our location and infrastructure give ready access to the developing all-Ireland economy, access to the British market and into Europe.
“We are a highly competitive cost environment, but our economy does not compete on cost alone, we compete on talent. One of our greatest assets is our skills base. Potential investors will find a highly skilled and motivated workforce proven in our history of engineering and in our expertise in emerging technologies."