Irvine Questions Long-Term Economic Strategy Following Deloitte Expansion in Belfast

The announcement of 500 new Deloitte jobs in Belfast is being welcomed as a sign of progress, but it raises questions about our long-term economic direction. Foreign direct investment has its place, but when it’s the foundation of strategy, we risk deeper dependency on external interests.

Deloitte, like many large firms, recruits globally and follows international hiring trends. While inclusion is the stated goal, we must ensure that local workers, especially young people here, are not overlooked. Our focus should be on creating opportunity for those already living in Belfast, particularly as housing and infrastructure are under strain.

What’s missing in the wider conversation is real support for homegrown enterprise. Rather than celebrating every multinational arrival, we should be investing in domestic businesses rooted in our communities and committed to long-term local employment.

A Sovereign Irish economy must serve the people of Ireland. That means prioritising native industry, fair wages and long-term stability over short-term headlines or the shareholders of foreign multinational corporations. History shows that economic prosperity built from within is the only kind that lasts.

ENDS

Statement originally written while serving as an Aontú representative, however, the party asked that it not be published at the time.