Government needs to act fast on “tsunami” of increasing energy costs facing local construction material suppliers – MPA NI and Manufacturing NI…
Two of Northern Ireland’s most essential industries have joined forces to support the growing calls for the UK Government to take urgent action to tackle the energy crisis that is seeing electricity costs for manufacturers in this coming year, compared to last year, quadrupole.
The Mineral Products Association NI and Manufacturing NI is asking our local MPs to support calls for urgent action to be taken at Westminster. MPA, MPANI and Manufacturing NI believe there are a number of steps the Treasury could take to alleviate the increasing burden on construction material manufacturers by:
• Allowing temporary deferral of VAT payments.
• Reinstating or replacing the red diesel rebate to cut fuel duty.
• Taking measures to tackle costs for energy intensive industries like mineral and construction products.
In a joint statement Gordon Best, Regional Director MPANI and Stephen Kelly, CEO Manufacturing NI, said, “The tsunami of increasing costs for fuel and electricity facing our local manufacturers is unprecedented. Many companies are now looking into a very dark future with significant concern being expressed over their ability to operate and have a sustainable future in the light of these cost increases.
“Both our organisations would echo the calls for the new Prime Minister and Government to take what ever action is needed to protect jobs and businesses. We would call on our locally elected MPs to lobby at Westminster and call for Government to introduce measures to ease the burden of these excessive energy costs on households and businesses in Northern Ireland.”
The Mineral Products Association (MPANI), formerly QPANI, represents approximately 95% of Northern Ireland construction materials suppliers delivering to and supporting the local construction industry. Employing almost 5,000 people in mainly rural areas and contributing millions of pounds to the local economy it is a key essential industry supporting the quality of life of every man, woman and child in Northern Ireland.
Manufacturing NI is a campaigning organisation which works with member companies, workforce representatives, policymakers and regulators to challenge and encourage change in areas which impact on the cost of doing business, specifically rates, energy, labour, Brexit and challenges such as Covid-19.
For further information about MPA NI call: +44 (0)28 9082 4078; email: info@mpani.org or visit: www.mpani.org
