§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress is being made in implementing the Kurt/Salmon report into the textile industry in Northern Ireland. [100429]
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§ Mr. PearsonThe Kurt Salmon report includes a series of recommendations, the majority of which are for the industry itself to implement. Since the textile industry's endorsement of this Strategy, in 2000, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (through Invest NI) has implemented a comprehensive programme of support in line with its key recommendations. This support has included financial assistance for companies implementing these recommendations and the establishment of Catalyst, an industry grouping whose role is to provide the strategic focus, dynamic leadership and expertise to the sector. In addition, Invest NI has provided support in the areas of innovation, training, and product and trade development. A customised package of support has also been implemented on targeted sector initiatives and supporting industry trade associations to assist in the delivery of the strategy. Initiatives to date include Irish Linen plus Lycra, the Brand to Win programme, and the recent Medical Textiles conference held in Belfast's Odyssey Arena.