McGuinness says Partnership Can Resolve Crisis
8 Jul 2009
David Begg, Patricia McKeown and Martin McGuinness - Credit: Kevin Cooper, PhotolineDeputy First Minister in the Northern Ireland administration, Martin McGuinness, told delegates that he saw working in 'partnership' as fundamental to resolving the current economic crisis.
Addressing Day Two of conference, Mr McGuinness said the nature of the challenges that presented were such that "it will require a united front to overcome them.
Our work can only be successful if we work in partnership."
Mr McGuinness said that meant working in partnership with all key sectors in society, including Trade Unions. He also expressed concern at the impact of the downturn on people across the island.
"The recession cannot, and must not, be used as an excuse to drive down terms and conditions of employment for ordinary workers. Ordinary workers cannot be asked to pay the heaviest price for a crisis that is not of their making.
"It is their lives and futures and indeed that of their children and grandchildren that we must focus on improving. And while we work to address the employment and banking crisis we must ensure that the most vulnerable in our society continue to be protected," Mr McGuinness said.