SDLP Economy Spokesperson Dr. Alasdair McDonnell has urged local businesses to help paint “a crystal clear picture” of their banking experiences by responding to the latest online IoD banking survey before the closing date of 3 March 2010.

The South Belfast MP has been an outspoken critic of recent bad banking practices and has raised his concerns directly with the Prime Minister in Westminster. In January of this year he also led an IoD delegation to meet with the Irish Finance Minister Brian Lenihan to discuss ongoing problems in the banking sector.

Alasdair McDonnell said: “If we are to have a clear understanding of the banking experiences of the local business community, we need to hear directly from the businesses themselves.

“This latest survey by the Institute of Directors gives local business people the opportunity to do just that.

“Increasingly we are hearing reports from the Chief Executives of banks that lending levels and support for SMEs has increased. This survey will test just that.

“It follows on from two IoD surveys carried out last year. The last set of survey findings published in September 2009 did show an improvement in banking conditions but the timing and way in which decisions were made, the number of hoops and the high levels of bureaucracy businesses had to go through were cited as areas of difficulties.

“This survey will allow us to see if there have been improvements in these and other areas.

“I would urge business people to take a few minutes out to complete this short questionnaire before the closing date of 3 March. It is important you have your say”.

The survey can be completed via the IoD website at www.iod.com/northernireland”

ENDS

26-02-10