NORTHERN Ireland manufacturing industry has overcome the immediate effects of the Drumcree stand-off and resulting violence, according to a report published yesterday.

There had been fears that the North's industry could be devastated by the scenes of violence flashed around the world, but the survey by the PA Consulting Group of business prospects forecasts a positive growth in employment and investment intention for industry generally over the next 12 months - albeit a token one.

But the meat industry is recording a downturn of more than 50 per cent in orders, due to the BSE crisis