Givan and O’Neill launch consultation on Executive’s new investment strategy
First Minister Paul Givan and deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill have today published the Executive’s new draft Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland (ISNI).
The draft strategy sets out a framework for an innovative approach to multi-billion-pound investment for infrastructure projects including new roads, schools, hospitals, social housing, and public transport. It takes a long-term view, setting out the Executive’s priorities for investment over the next 30 years.
Opening a public consultation on the draft strategy on behalf of the Executive, the Ministers called for the views of businesses, community organisations and individual citizens on the future of our infrastructure planning.
First Minister Paul Givan said: “We want to deliver infrastructure that enables everyone to lead healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives; that can support sustainable economic development and protect our environment. Our investments should help decarbonise our economy while building a strong, competitive region and maximising the benefits from new technology and innovation.
“Our investment in infrastructure must support all the people of Northern Ireland, so I encourage everyone to have their say on this draft strategy.”
Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “This investment strategy is important for every individual, family and community. Our investment in infrastructure should improve people’s lives, and make this a great place to live, work and invest. And our infrastructure planning must ensure our investment is prioritised to help those most in need, create a fairer and greener society, and deliver first class public services.
“This consultation is your opportunity to have your say on what’s important to you, and what our priorities should be in government for our infrastructure investment. Please share your views with us by responding to the public consultation.”
The consultation will run for 12 weeks and closes on 20th April 2022. A copy of the strategy, and details on how to respond to the consultation, is available at isni.gov.uk. You can also respond using our consultation forum.
Three hour-long information and feedback events are also scheduled to take place online on:
- Thursday 10th February 2022 at 2 pm
- Friday 25th February 2022 at 10.30 am
- Monday 14th March 2022 at 7 pm
Information on joining these events is available at isni.gov.uk
Chair of SIB Gerry McGinn added: “Infrastructure is about more than bricks and mortar. Our roads connect our communities and our businesses, our hospitals improve our quality of life and our schools will inspire and equip the next generation to overcome the challenges of the future. This draft Investment Strategy is the framework that our future as a region and as a society will be built upon. It is therefore vital that we hear the views of more people in this consultation.”