SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan has welcomed the news that the Altnagelvin-based Clinical Translational Research and Innovation Centre (C-TRIC) has now been completed, and has said it is "exactly the sort of knowledge economy-driven jobs creator Derry needs more of."

Mr Durkan said: "I am pleased to hear the news that the new University of Ulster research centre at the C-TRIC facility has now been completed.

"I have showcased the facility on a number of occasions to visitors to Derry – including the former US Consul General Kamala Lakhdhir. Everyone has been greatly impressed by their innovative approach in connecting clinical research through to new technologies for the marketplace.

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"The C-TRIC centre is an example of what Derry can achieve when different agencies work together. Indeed, in delivering the One Plan it is exactly the kind of strong partnership model we need to see more of – in this case between the university, the Trust and the hospital. It is also testimony to the good professional leadership of (C-TRIC Chief Executive) Maurice O'Kane and his colleagues.

"This cutting edge facility was developed using money from the Integrated Development Fund which also delivered investments such as Skeoge Business Park, the Walled City Tourism Project and the Robotics Centre at Magee – yet the Executive abolished it in 2008.

"Restoring the Integrated Development Fund would mean that Ilex and the Strategy Board would have a coherent fund to go to when they put forward cases for the North West. They would not have to spend time busking around various Departments trying to get money for this or that project.

"Those who previously supported dissolving the Integrated Development Fund should look again at that decision, because restoring the fund would give the North West the capacity to move towards economic recovery."

(CD/JP)