Warning over NI living standards

The next generation in Northern Ireland will be condemned to lower living standards unless the area can compete for its share of the global economy, it has been claimed.

With the diminishing textile industry facing a growing threat from cheaper operating costs in Asia and Eastern Europe, David Dobbin, the new chairman of CBI Northern Ireland, called for swift action to expand the private sector.

He said Northern Ireland would have to rely on developing its indigenous businesses as it was unlikely it would be able to attract as much investment as it had in the past.

He also warned there was a real risk that proposals to outlaw age discrimination could create additional and unnecessary burdens on businesses.

Mr Dobbin, group chief executive of United Dairy Farmers, declared “Unless we take action now to grow our private sector, simplify public administration and create a world class infrastructure our economy will run out of road and we will sentence the next generation to a fall in living standards.”

Mr Dobbin criticised the British government for not following through on its promises to improve Northern Ireland’s infrastructure and reduce the cost of running a business.

He said: “The government has made significant progress in terms of putting strategies in place and giving ambitious commitments on transport, telecoms and energy, but now we need to see delivery on these.”

He added: “When CBI Northern Ireland published its Business Manifesto in 2002, we set out our vision to make the province the best place to do business in Europe.”

Mr Dobbi, who took over from Dr Ian McMorris, also called for more help for those wishing to start their own business, and raised concerns that young people were not adequately prepared for work after leaving school or university.

He said: “It is vital that we give young people a good education but also one that equips them for the world of work. Essential skills have now moved up the government’s agenda, but we have a lot more to do.”