AQW 9739/22-27

Mr Daniel McCrossan
Social Democratic and Labour Party
West Tyrone

Tabled Date: 09/04/2024
Answered On Date: 16/04/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy, further to the figures published by the NI Composite Economic Index which states that economic output decreased by 0.2 per cent over the last quarter, what measures he is taking to stop the economy going into recession.

Answer:

It is important to note that, while the latest NI Composite Economic Index showed that economic output in the North decreased by 0.2% over the quarter to December 2023, it has increased by 0.3% over the year.

I am now taking a range of steps to address the economic challenges I have identified. My focus on productivity will support stronger sustainable economic growth but, crucially, it is aimed at growth that is shared across all our regions and that supports better working conditions.

I will be publishing actions to deliver on my economic objectives as part of the Department’s business plan for 2024/25. I will also work in collaboration with business representatives, trade unions and academia in pursuit of these aims.