MEP spends day in Kilkeel
20 May 2007
Statement by Jim Allister MEP:
"I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Kilkeel businesses on Friday 18th May, along with local MLA, Jim Wells. I was much impressed by the innovative spirit in evidence and delighted to see that industry is thriving in Kilkeel. The Aerospace Factory has put Kilkeel at the forefront of the aircraft furnishing industry. Its growth and market share is a great tribute to both the drive and initiative of the local management and the dedication of its expanding workforce. All can rightly take pride in what has been achieved.
Thompson Solutions is a marvellous example of forward-looking initiative and business development. Developing new product and securing the associated intellectual property rights puts the company at the cutting edge of progress and, again, promotes Kilkeel as a location of excellence.
To see the huge operation that Toughglass has developed into is a fantastic example of what a local company can achieve. In an age when manufacturing faces massive challenges from the developing economies of China and india, Toughglass is proof that a quality product can still win through.
I was delighted to see the first phase of the Binnian Business Park already full and to hear the Kilkeel Development Association's plans for expansion. This is particularly encouraging and along with the planned improvements at the harbour will provide fiurther opportunity for Kilkeel. However, such expansion underscores the need for early action on providing the essential link road between Moor Road and Rooney Road. Accordingly, I will be taking up with Roads Service the need to expedite this scheme, so that the present congestion, which results from all heavy harbour traffic having to be funnelled down one road, can be resolved. This road, it seems to me, is vital to the opening up of the further industrially zoned land at the harbour.
I thank Jim Wells MLA for organising this visit and commend him for ever pushing Kilkeel's needs to the forefront."
