SDLP Ballyarnett councillor Rory Farrell
Recently released statistics show that, since January, Invest NI has announced 1,176 jobs in Belfast compared to only 29 in Derry.
The Ballyarnett representative said: “These are shocking figures. Urgent action is required from Invest NI and the Economy Minister Diane Dodds to increase support for the North West and to promote the region.
“We need to see a detailed plan to boost economic performance, attract investors and create wealth and employment.
“That plan must include targets for job creation, reducing economic inactivity, increasing wage levels and foreign investor visits.
“And it must be backed up with an appropriate funding package.”
Councillor Farrell added: “We also need to see decisive action from Arlene Foster and Michelle O’Neill on Magee expansion plans.
“Universities create opportunity and we will never have a level playing field when Belfast has 40,000 students and Derry only has 4,000.”
