§ Sir John Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement about the Pathfinder process.
§ Mr. ViggersIn the last year I have been seeking to stimulate a wide-ranging debate on economic development in Northern Ireland through a project which I have entitled the Pathfinder process. Following detailed consideration by six task forces within Government, on 7 July 1987 I published a discussion document, -Building a Stronger Economy" (copies of which are in the Library), setting out an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses in the regional economy together with an initial set of recommendations to build on the strengths and remedy the weaknesses. I have subsequently received over 40 responses from representative bodies and individuals, and a series of seminars have been organised throughout the Province to gather additional views. Some initiatives have already been implemented as a result of this process and it is intended to implement further measures as part of this practical approach to strengthening the regional economy.