'Potential cuts to Young Enterprise NI devastating and totally counter-productive' - Sinéad McLaughlin

Potential cuts to Young Enterprise NI have been described as "devastating and totally counter-productive" by Foyle MLA Sinéad  McLaughlin (SDLP).

Her remarks followed reports the Department of Education grant, which amounts to 50% of the organisation’s funding, could be at risk at the end of May.

Ms. McLaughlin said: "As an MLA and previously as Chief Executive in our Chamber of Commerce, I have seen first-hand the incredible contribution that Young Enterprise NI has made to our economy, benefitting almost 100,000 young people every single year.

"Just a few months ago, I met fantastic young entrepreneurs at their Big Market Trade Fair in Foyleside and saw an example of how the young people involved are developing skills and confidence as a result of this organisation. I have also been pleased to work with the organisation through the All-Party Group on Micro and Small Businesses.”

“Skills, innovation and entrepreneurship are at the heart of improving our economy and this organisation’s work is invaluable in helping to address the challenges that we faces. It’s staggering that just a few months ago, the work of Young Enterprise NI was showcased at the visit from the President of the United States, yet now they are faced with cuts of 50% because of the ongoing crisis at Stormont.

“I will be writing to the Department of Education to ask whether other avenues have been explored and what steps the Department has been taken to reduce the impact of any potential cuts.”