Hundreds of jobs to be created by £50m defence sector deal

Northern Ireland's defence sector is to receive a boost which will lead to hundreds of jobs locally, officials have said.

The Northern Ireland Defence Growth Deal, launched by the UK government, will see £50m invested in tech companies and start ups.

It is a collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, local companies and Queen's University Belfast and is also aimed at helping students develop skills in engineering and technology.

As part of the launch on Wednesday, Defence Minister Luke Pollard will visit Belfast along with Northern Ireland Office Minister Matthew Patrick.

They will be meeting local industry representatives and academics.