Varney Reviews Competitiveness Of Northern Ireland

by Carla Johnson, Investors Offshore.com, London

31 January 2008

Following the publication of Sir David Varney's Review of tax policy in Northern Ireland on 17 December, Sir David has been asked by UK Chancellor, Alistair Darling to conduct a further review of the Northern Ireland economy, building on his recent work and focusing on identifying measures to promote private sector investment and enhance competitiveness in Northern Ireland.

He explained that the Terms of Reference for this review are:

"Building on Sir David's earlier analysis and agreement from all parties about the unique circumstances of Northern Ireland (in relation to the opportunities provided by the peace process, the need to strengthen the private sector, to create increased employment opportunities and to reform the public sector) this review will explore in more detail how to expand the private sector and to enhance Northern Ireland's competitiveness."

"In this context, the review will look at incentives for supporting the sustainable growth of businesses, investment and employment in Northern Ireland and the implications for reducing the historic dependency on the public sector. This will include examination of incentives for growth in Northern Ireland that fall within the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Executive and the UK Government."

As part of the review, Sir David will be seeking views from as many stakeholders as possible, in Northern Ireland, Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

The review team is looking for evidence on the particular challenges and opportunities for the Northern Ireland economy.

Sir David will aim to report in good time for the US Investment Conference, which is likely to take place in early May.

In order to support such a timetable, the Call for Evidence will therefore last for four weeks, and will close on 25 February 2008.

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