Neeson meets Minister to discuss support for Shorts' project

12.00.00am GMT Tue 4th Jan 2005

ALLIANCE representative for East Antrim, Councillor Sean Neeson MLA, is leading a party delegation to meet the Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister to discuss the long term viability of two important local employers.

Speaking ahead of the meeting at Netherleigh House tomorrow morning, Mr Neeson stated:

"Both I and East Belfast Alliance MLA Naomi Long want to encourage Trade Minster Barry Gardiner to lend the Government's support to a new Bombardier project at Shorts to develop their new C-series aircraft.

"This important project is vital for the long-term future of the Shorts workforce in the Belfast area, and I have already written to the Prime Minister and Chancellor to ask the Government to provide adequate support."

Mr Neeson said that he would also be discussing Kilroot power station with the Minister. He said:

"The future of Kilroot's long-term viability is related to the financing of flugas desulphurisation. It is therefore essential that the Government allows Kilroot to comply with EU regulation in this regard."