The minister at the helm of making financial provisions for Northern Ireland's programme for government has spoken of the challenges ahead.

Nigel Dodds, who was appointed the Stormont Executive's Minister for Finance and Personnel, in a ministerial reshuffle by DUP leader Peter Robinson, on Monday, has highlighted the priorities for this department.

Mr Dodds said: "As Minister for Finance & Personnel I will play a key role in supporting the delivery of the objectives laid down in the Executive's Programme for Government.

"At the heart of the Programme for Government is the goal of improving the economic future of Northern Ireland. This is a challenging task at a time of global economic uncertainty and a tightening of public spending, but one that I am determined to play my part in achieving.

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"That is why I will work to ensure that all Government Departments deliver against the challenging targets agreed by the Executive whilst striving for value for money and the most effective use of the resources available to them."

He continued: "I also want to see Government services become more accessible to the public. The Civil Service Reform Programme will be instrumental in ensuring Government becomes more focused on the needs of the Northern Ireland community and I will continue the roll-out of this important work."

"I will play my part in creating the circumstances where Government becomes more responsive to the needs of the community and where a vibrant private sector is encouraged to flourish to stimulate the economic growth that will benefit everyone in Northern Ireland," added Minister Dodds.

(PR/JM)