PUBLIC sector procurement is a vital element in supporting the local construction industry and boosting the Northern Ireland economy.
That was the message from Finance Minister Arlene Foster when visiting the £32m construction site for the Western Health Trust’s new radiotherapy unit at Altnagelvin hospital this week.
Minister Foster said: “This significant project will not only deliver a radiotherapy unit but is creating many more opportunities, providing local jobs in the construction industry and spin off economic benefits for local service providers such as shops and cafes.
“While McLaughlin & Harvey Building & Civil Engineering Contractors is the main contractor there are supply chain opportunities for local SMEs.
This is reflective of the fact that 75% of public sector contracts in Northern Ireland, — more than £2.5bn annually — go to local businesses.”