High street voucher scheme will come to fruition – soon, says new Economy Minister

High street voucher scheme will come to fruition – soon, says new Economy Minister

New Economy Minister Gordon Lyons says he will “bring to fruition” the £145m high street, and holiday and home schemes as businesses recover from the Covid-19 pandemic. The East Antrim MLA was making his first statement after taking over from Paul Frew, who held the role for a matter of weeks. New DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson appointed Mr Lyons as Economy Minister on Tuesday – his only ministerial change since taking over from Edwin Poots.

Economic Recovery Action Plan – ERAP

“Under the ERAP, I will bring to fruition the £145million High Street Scheme and Holiday at Home Scheme, to support our retail, leisure and tourism sectors, as well as local households.

He added: “While we have made good progress in the recovery, I know there is much work still to do. But I believe we can look ahead with optimism.

“Our business community has shown levels of creativity and resilience that give me great confidence that Northern Ireland is forging a path to a positive economic future.”