Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has announced a major initiative to help local construction and civil engineering companies win business from the new £15 billion.

The Minister was speaking at the first in a series of events being planned by Invest Northern Ireland to enable local companies to develop contacts with contractors already working on the huge investment project in London.

Twelve buyers from major contractors, such as Balfour Beatty, BAM Nuttall, Ferrovial Kier, Carillion, Costain, EDF,and Morgan Sindall, met directors of 40 local companies in the House of Lords at a special 'Meet the Buyer' dinner and networking event about Crossrail opportunities.

Ms Foster said: "Crossrail is now the largest and most comprehensive construction and civil engineering project in Europe. The investment to create an underground rail network for the 21st century presents huge business opportunities for Northern Ireland companies across a broad range of sectors.

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"While a number of construction companies have secured significant business from the other major projects in London such as the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, I am keen to see a great many more engaged in projects such as Crossail, which is a huge UK business opportunity.

"To help our companies harness the business, Invest Northern Ireland has appointed an experienced UK construction industry professional, Nick Turberville. Nick will be based in London and will be engaged in a structured programme of practical support to raise awareness in London about the capabilities and experience of the Northern Ireland construction and civil engineering industry.

"Nick has relevant experience from his work on construction projects associated with the London Olympics. The programme he is developing with Invest NI's Trade team will include a series of ‘meet the buyer’ type events, site visits, one-to-one guidance, support on tender opportunities, requirements and procedures, as well as lead generation.

"The aim will be to assist as many companies as possible to become part of the supply chains of the main contractors already involved in the project and those likely to win business in the future."

(CD/GK)