Power-sharing has delivered stability, says Paisley 08/05/2008 - 14:37:59
Stormont's power-sharing executive has delivered stable government to the North, First Minister Ian Paisley claimed today.
Exactly one year on from the return of devolution, the outgoing Democratic Unionist leader, who will stand down as First Minister next month, told senior US business executives the four-party executive in Belfast was a pro-business government.
Recalling last year's celebrations, the First Minister said: "Exactly one year ago today, I stood on this spot and I committed myself and my party to the work of this government.
"One year on, I believe we have made significant progress and the determination of the Northern Ireland Executive to build on that foundation has been strengthened by your engagement at this time.
"I say to our American friends you do not know what your meeting here with us today means for Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland people oft times have been discouraged and saddened but today they are encouraged and gladdened. This has been a great conference and, of course, the best has yet to be.
"We promised that as local people we would govern in the interests of local people. We also promised to build a stable government and we have succeeded - no matter what anyone says - in this aim.
"Today I would encourage you to examine the foundation and assure yourselves it is a sound and profitable foundation upon which we are building and upon which we call you to build your businesses."
Mr Paisley said the Executive was building on three foundations: its people, its pro-business policies and its plans to develop the province's infrastructure.
People are the North's greatest asset, he said.
The North, the DUP leader said, enjoyed some of the highest educational standards and achievements in Europe, supported by world class universities with strong links to business.
The Executive had also developed a clear vision for economic development to drive social improvement and provide an environment where businesses could be established and allowed to grow.
The Stormont administration was also planning to spend around £20bn (€25.4bn) over 10 years on schools, hospitals, roads and telecommunications.
The First Minister told his guests: "Finally, there is a promise - a promise that we will continue to dedicate ourselves to ensure that we maintain an effective, stable, locally accountable government.
"(It is) a promise that this Executive and government, along with the business community and other social partners, will remain committed to enabling the economy to achieve its full potential.
"(It is) a promise that we as ministers will directly engage with you and support you as you explore the opportunities, make decisions and, we trust, set up business in this, our treasured country.
"As (Economy) Minister (Nigel) Dodds said earlier, we will ensure continued growth and success, we will create opportunities and we will change lives."
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Stormont's power-sharing executive has delivered stable government to the North, First Minister Ian Paisley claimed today.
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