Northern Ireland's business leaders have been urged to adopt a "can do" attitude and play a more constructive role in efforts to revive the peace process. The local chairman of the Confederation of British Industry, Dr Chris Gibson, said local decision-makers and members of the public should encourage politicians to work together.
At the annual CBI lunch, Dr Gibson told up to 300 leading members of the business community it was time for them to make their voices heard in the fight to secure a peaceful future for Northern Ireland.
"Business is not an isolated activity," Dr Gibson said. "It is an integral part of the social and political fabric of society. When conducted with social and environmental consciousness, it can be a major force for positive change in society in general, and in governmental systems in particular.
"It is therefore up to the business community, along with members of the public, to see that our politicians resolve their differences."
He said the prime task of business was to create value and wealth which could be used to benefit every member of the community. It also had a responsibility to build new relationships and create lines of communication.
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