An MLA has slammed on-going delays that are preventing the launch of a major John Lewis store in Northern Ireland.

Ulster Unionist Finance Spokesperson David McNarry has said that preventing such retail chains from locating to Northern Ireland is "no way to combat our economic woes".

Speaking after it was revealed that a public inquiry into proposals for a flagship John Lewis store was adjourned on its first day without hearing any of the evidence, the UUP MLA said that "we need to send a clear signal that Northern Ireland is keen to attract - not drive away - investment".

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Mr McNarry said: "Northern Ireland cannot afford to lose or ignore investment opportunities such as that offered by the John Lewis proposals for Sprucefield.

"That is particularly true in the current economic climate where hardship is universal.

"These hardships are likely to be prolonged over the next two years. A clear go-ahead for the John Lewis store would give a tremendous confidence boost to our economy, and would also issue a fresh signal to other potential investors to look seriously at Northern Ireland as a location that is ready, willing and able to meet their investment needs," he added.

(NS/BMcC)