Britain has been criticised for failing to provide any notable support mechanisms for small businesses in the North in its latest budget, even though an additional £650m (€733m) for the North’s economy was welcomed.

The economy will increase 4.8% this year and 3.3% next year as a broadbased recovery takes hold, according to EY’s latest economic outlook.

The Irish arm of global professional services giant, EY has reported revenues of €166m for its latest financial year — representing growth of over 17%.