Northern firms 'better equipped to beat recession'

Businesses in the North stand a better chance of beating recession than those in other parts of Ireland and could make a significant contribution to the future economic recovery of the island, it was claimed today.

Andy Pollak, director of the Centre for Cross-Border Studies said in the current economic climate there were real opportunities for northern firms who were prepared to look south.

“Key northern business leaders realise that, with sterling now close to parity with the euro, firms here can sell into the Republic at very competitive prices,” he said in Belfast as he unveiled a major research and development initiative commissioned by the EU’s cross-border INTERREG programme.

One of the key studies, he said, would be on “how small firms in the border region might be able to use their position as a competitive strength rather than a barrier” in the current economic circumstances.

The research programme by INICCO (the Ireland/Northern Ireland Cross-border Co-operation Observatory) is a combination of five research, information and training projects being undertaken for the Centre for Cross-Border Studies.

The three-year initiative will provide critical insight and practical advice on priority border issues including the economy, spatial planning, training, health and information for cross-border workers.

“This is a future-oriented programme that will yield information for border residents and commuters while outlining best economic practice for policy and decision makers,” said Mr Pollak.