The Ulster Unionist Party hosted a post-Brexit Economic Forum at Stormont today with key stakeholders to discuss their concerns, the challenges ahead and a way forward for Northern Ireland. The clear message from today`s discussions is that Northern Ireland is crying out to hear what the Executive`s plan is.

Steve Aiken MLA, the Ulster Unionist Party spokesperson for the Economy, said:

“After meeting a cross-section of Northern Ireland business groups, it is clear that Northern Ireland needs an urgent action plan to give clarity, build confidence and reassure our business community, academia and community organisations that politicians in Northern Ireland are listening. We have entered an era of uncertainty and it is up to politicians to grasp the reality of the situation and that needs to start with the Northern Ireland Executive. The Ulster Unionist Party will be meeting other sectoral bodies in the coming days and weeks.

“Whether you were pro-Remain or pro-Leave, Northern Ireland needs a plan.”

Philip Smith MLA, the Party’s Finance spokesperson said:

“The Northern Ireland Executive is now facing a credibility moment; this is potentially a defining time for our politics. The Executive and the Assembly must now step-up to the challenge that is upon us, or face the consequences, which could be potentially long lasting if not handled in the right way. When talking to business groups, they tell us there is great uncertainty about what will happen to the funding which goes to our universities, our community & voluntary sector, and to our farmers. At the moment the Executive does not seem to recognise the importance of EU funding to the Northern Ireland economy, and has no plans to mitigate against its loss.”