Upbeat message for New Year

David Trimble and Seamus Mallon: Upbeat message

The First and Deputy First Ministers have said people in Northern Ireland should consider and remember the achievements in the province since this time last year.

David Trimble and Seamus Mallon issued their call in a New Year message released on Friday.

In their statement, the two men pointed to the Programme for Government and a commitment to improve services in 2001.

"We have introduced a first Programme for Government for the people of Northern Ireland, linked to a new budget, setting out clear targets with over 230 actions.

"In the next year we need to carry the programme forward to improve the services that you receive."

They also said the economy was continuing to improve and stressed their continued commitment to countering inequality and disadvantage.

"We recognise that there are still difficulties ahead with which we will need to deal but we are determined to resolve these issues.

"We must not forget the progress that we have made in the past year and we should look forward positively to the New Year with the opportunities and challenges that it will bring."