Economy Minister Paul Frew has announced the establishment of the Makers Alliance, an independent industry-led body which will drive the strategic development of the Advanced Manufacturing sector in Northern Ireland.

Minister Frew said: "Northern Ireland's Advanced Manufacturing sector has been at the heart of our economy for many years. It is also one of the priority clusters identified in my Department's 10X Economic Vision as having the potential to drive our economy forward."

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Makers Alliance will work closely with key stakeholders including Manufacturing NI, universities, further education colleges and councils to address the needs of industry. Its focus will be to accelerate innovation, digitalisation and the green agenda within manufacturing.

Sir Michael Ryan CBE, Vice President and General Manager of Spirit AeroSystems, Belfast has been appointed Chair of the Makers Alliance.

He said: "The establishment of Makers Alliance couldn’t have come at a better time as we navigate difficult times for many manufacturing businesses and look to a post pandemic recovery. I look forward to taking up this position and supporting the sector to embrace innovation, to drive growth and support a more sustainable, competitive and lower carbon manufacturing industry."

Mark Nodder and Mark Huddleston have been appointed joint CEOs for a period of 12 months.