US to appoint North envoys

The US government is poised to appoint an economic representative to the North, as well as an envoy to boost the political process, it was disclosed today.

The news comes after First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness held St Patrick’s Day talks on Tuesday with President Barack Obama in Washington.

Mr Robinson today said he expected an announcement from the White House confirming it would appoint a political envoy, as expected, but would also offer an economic go-between.

The First Minister said the move would continue the support successive US administrations have shown for the political process in the North.

But in addition, it would give vital additional support to the attempts to develop economic links between the US and the North.

“That is the proposition of the United States Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton,” said Mr Robinson.

“I think they are expecting in a matter of days to be making an announcement.”

The First Minister added: “I think it is important from a Northern Ireland point of view – the United States is a key partner in terms of our economy.

“There is a very considerable presence in Northern Ireland of US companies."