Junior Ministers Ian Paisley jnr and Gerry Kelly have welcomed the European Commission's Northern Ireland Taskforce's fact-finding mission to the region today.

The Taskforce is taking part in a series of meetings with government departments, social partners and other stakeholders.

Ian Paisley Jnr, said: "In November, Minister Kelly and I led a delegation to Brussels and the Taskforce is here at our invitation to follow-up on those discussions. Europe's continuing political and financial support is an enormous encouragement.

-- Advertisement --

"The Taskforce presence here today demonstrates Europe's ongoing high level commitment to our future of continued peace, political stability and economic growth. It is fitting to pay tribute to President Barroso for the support that the European Union and its Member States continue to show us."

Gerry Kelly said: "The Executive is determined to make the most of this unique opportunity - this is the first time that there has been such a Taskforce and we look forward to continuing to work with it in the time ahead."

The First Minister Ian Paisley and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness are due to visit Brussels in early January to meet President Barroso and Commissioner Hübner.

(JM)