The DUP’s Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart is urging local businesses to avail of a multi-million-pound investment scheme designed to improve the productivity and competitiveness of the agri-food sector in Northern Ireland.
The £46m Agri-Food Investment Initiative (AFII) was announced earlier this week by Economy Minister Conor Murphy and Invest NI chief Kieran Donoghue.
Ms Lockhart said: “Agri-food processing is a key player in our economy, especially in rural areas. I welcome the £46m scheme which will unlock further potential and improve productivity and sustainability for food and beverage processors throughout Northern Ireland.”
“I am delighted the Stormont Economy Minister opted to make the announcement during a visit to the Upper Bann constituency. Classic Mineral Water in Lurgan has made a significant investment in new equipment and innovation in recent years. Boasting a state-of-the-art facility, the company is now the first in Ireland to produce isotonic drinks for the private market, resulting in increased sales and a growing workforce.”
The Agri-Food Investment Initiative has been developed by Invest NI to provide financial assistance for local food and beverage processors. “The scheme is designed to allow companies to improve efficiency and productivity; enhance the competitiveness of the province’s agri-food sector; and support growth, innovation and new product development.”
Ms Lockhart who is the DUP’s Westminster Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Spokesperson added: “The newly launched AFII scheme is open to all new and existing Invest NI clients operating within a variety of food and drink processing areas, including meat, dairy, potatoes, fruit and vegetables, cereals, arable crops, bakery, snacks and animal feed.
“The initiative is open for applications from all eligible agri-food and drink processors. Invest NI is particularly interested in innovative projects which will improve productivity and sustainability.
“Northern Ireland’s agri-food sector is already punching well above its weight. The £46m funding pot will further support the industry and help companies to modernise, boost employment, increase productivity and introduce greener technology which will contribute to our net zero targets.”
Further information is available from the Invest NI website http://www.investni.com or its Business Support team on 0800 181 4422.
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