Public procurement spend in Northern Ireland grew by 9% during 2008 and 2009, the Stormont Finance Minister has said.

Sammy Wilson, speaking at a Procurement Board meeting in Belfast, said his Executive colleagues recognise that during difficult economic times, local businesses "need as much help from Government as possible".

"Public procurement expenditure by Northern Ireland departments, their agencies, non-departmental public bodies and public corporations, accounted for approximately £2.4bn of supplies, services and construction works in 2008-2009," he said.

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"This represents an increase of 9% or £200m on the previous year."

Mr Wilson said the highest level of expenditure was reported in the area of construction and maintenance.

This work showed an increase of £104m from the previous year, which the minister said provided "much needed investment in the local economy".

"This is not just about spending money. It is about making a real impact on local communities in Northern Ireland through the delivery of new schools, roads and services."

Des Armstrong, Director of Central Procurement Directorate (CPD), added: "The achievement of 96% of all public procurement spend being channelled through CPD and the Centres of Procurement Expertise highlights the increasingly important role procurement professionals play in driving best value for money in the delivery of better public services."

(PR/BMcC)