Gordon Brown: Together, we can ensure a shared future for everyone

US:NI Conference

Prime Minister Gordon Brown

On his first visit to Northern Ireland as Prime Minister, Gordon Brown says US investors can benefit from the province's unique position

Thursday, May 08, 2008

I am delighted to be in Belfast today on the first anniversary of the restoration of devolution to support this historic US-NI Investment Conference. There has been enormous progress in Northern Ireland since the Good Friday Agreement some ten years ago and the signing of the St Andrews Agreement last year.

The people here can look forward to a future full of hope.

As Prime Minister, I am determined to see that hope fulfilled and the development of a stable and successful country, where opportunity and employment is available to all.

As Chancellor, I worked hard to ensure the financial resources were available for local politicians to deliver a strong economic future for Northern Ireland.

Returning here today as Prime Minister I am determined to help local democracy work and ensure local politicians have all they need to deliver prosperity throughout Northern Ireland. The US-NI Investment Conference is proof that local politicians and business leaders share that determination and commitment to succeed.

I want to congratulate them on the progress they have achieved and for creating this excellent opportunity for US companies to invest. Northern Ireland benefits from its unique position within the global economy.

As part of the UK, Northern Ireland offers potential investors an attractive package of financial incentives and at the same time, it is part of an all island economy.

It is fertile ground for potential investors to grow their business.

With a new pro-business Executive in place, the devolved administration is committed to building a vibrant, dynamic and outward looking economy.

Northern Ireland has a highly skilled and well-educated workforce, a first class research and development sector and a sound infrastructure base which underpins support for enterprise. This combination has already attracted global corporations to Northern Ireland.

And crucially, they have stayed, grown and re-invested because they know that Northern Ireland is a sound investment for the future.

Since 2003, an average of ten US companies have come to Northern Ireland every year, resulting in over $1 billion investment and almost 5,000 jobs.

Northern Ireland has been transformed over the past decade and the United States has played an important role in helping to create this new era.

A strong bond already exists between the United States and the people of Northern Ireland.

There is a shared history and through increased economic co-operation and investment, there can be a better shared future for everyone.