Economy & International Affairs

Purpose

The purpose of the network is to build member capacity on economic, investment and EU issues. Disseminating knowledge and a menu of investment throughout the Councils. Supporting elected members and officers to influence policy, plan and deliver investment in specific sectors and in respective councils and communicating the role of elected members on key European bodies.

Priorities
Wider Objectives
Stakeholders / Partners

Lobbying on economic policy, tourism, skills, regional competitiveness, urban & rural development & international affairs

Democratic Scrutiny of NI and UK economic strategies (and related strategies) and Brexit preparedness

Coordinating regional input into economic and international affairs matters; promotion of international trade & funding opportunities; and Local Government representation in and benefit from international organisations (Commonwealth Local Government Forum, CoR, Congress, CEMR)

Building member capacity on economic and international issues.
Design and delivery of regional events on relevant issues.
Disseminating knowledge and funding opportunities throughout the Councils.
Identifying collaborative opportunities with neighbouring jurisdictions, including local government associations and councils in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland; city & growth deal regions; Irish Regional Assemblies; cross-border groups and other interest groups to innovate and offer best practice solutions.

Strategic Partners: Colleges NI, EER, Dept for Economy / INVEST NI, Enterprise NI, FSB, Ulster Farmers’ Union and Fisheries Bodies.

Key Ministers: Economy, Infrastructure, Education and International Relations.

Linked Bodies: The Executive Office, SOLACE, CoR, Congress, Invest NI, DfE, DEd, SEUPB, Whitehall / Westminster, UK Forum (LGA, COSLA and WLGA), AILG, US Consul and Strategic Investment Board.