NORTHERN Ireland needs to have an economy which generates "winners and champions" - but needs the new Stormont administration to play the game by formulating a Programme for Government which is "confident and not encumbered by political prejudice".
And NI Chamber of Commerce president Stephen McCully pledged the support of the organisation's membership to help achieve the Executive's goals in its next five-year term.
He was speaking to a sell-out 900-strong audience at the Chamber's annual dinner in the newly extended Waterfront Hall in Belfast.
It was the first external event to be held at the transformed venue and the largest event staged by the chamber in its 233-year history.
Mr McCully said: “The Chamber advocates a much more confident Programme for Government, one that favours strength of ambition in finding solutions and is not hindered by political cautiousness or prejudice.
“Our members stand by, ready to assist, in any way they can to support a Programme for Government that helps grow the business sector, that puts jobs, pride and dignity into our communities. That provides diversity of opportunities for a highly educated and skilled workforce. That delivers timely world class infrastructure, and better more efficient public services.”
He said that the business organisation has always endeavoured to encourage elected representatives and government in a practical and progressive way.
“We have actively attempted to change the narrative and to promote a more positive and ambitious message about Northern Ireland businesses and the prospect for increased growth and economic prosperity," he said.
“It is clear businesses in Northern Ireland want to see more positive momentum, they want an economy that they can be really proud of – generating more success stories, more winners and more champions.”
Billed as a celebration of champions in business and sport in Northern Ireland, guest speaker was retired Irish rugby legend Paul O’Connell, who captained the British and Irish Lions, Ireland and Munster, winning three Six Nations including a Grand Slam.
