Alliance Economy spokesperson Stewart Dickson MLA has welcomed an announcement of 200 new jobs in Belfast by international accounting firm KPMG.

A total of £14 million will be invested in KPMG’s Belfast offices, to establish a new Centre of Excellence in Belfast, delivering a range of digital consultancy services.

“Northern Ireland has been facing an extremely challenging period as a result of COVID-19, with unemployment rapidly rising and businesses suffering,” said Mr Dickson.

“It is therefore welcome news a prestigious international firm such as KPMG is making this investment, doubling its workforce, and demonstrating its confidence in our people and economy.

“As we look towards our economic recovery from the pandemic, it is vital we focus on adapting our business environment and skilling up our workforce to attract investment and opportunities that bring well-paying jobs to drive our economy.

“That is also why we also need a comprehensive Executive plan for recovery, to include business support schemes, skills and infrastructure, and I call on the Minister for the Economy to urgently take a lead on this.”