Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson has said he is “deeply disappointed” after no trade unionists were appointed to a group designed to help build the Northern Ireland economy.

Economy Minister Diane Dodds announced the membership of the Economic Advisory Group last night. The 11-member panel of economists, CEOs, managing directors and others, but has no trade union participation.

“Those appointed to the group are experts and will no doubt help rebuild the Northern Ireland economy after this crisis,” said East Antrim MLA Mr Dickson.

“However, if we are to truly recover from this pandemic and get back to as close as normal as we can, there needs to be participation from everyone involved. Workers will obviously be a key part, so trade unions should have a voice in this group to advocate for workers’ rights.

“It is disappointing the Minister has decided to not appoint any, or anyone from the community and voluntary sector, and is symbolic of her utter failure to embrace a social partnership approach to our economic recovery.”