A new £33 million sterling aircraft-building operation in Belfast is set to create nearly 400 jobs, it emerged today.
Canadian-owned manufacturer Bombardier Aerospace announced the investment in programmes to develop two new business jets.
The British government has agreed to put nearly £9 million towards the costs of the project, which will provide a huge boost to the Northern Ireland economy.
Mr Barry Gardiner, the Enterprise Minister at Stormont, said the investment would help ensure Bombardier's Belfast company remains a globally competitive centre of excellence for designing and manufacturing major aircraft parts.
He declared: "These programmes are immensely important not only for Bombardier in Northern Ireland, but also for the wider economy.
"In terms of salaries and wages alone Bombardier provides £135 million per year into the local economy from its employees."
PA