Northern Ireland Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell has been accused of “falling asleep at the wheel” after not responding to a report commissioned by his own department.

An Energy and Manufacturing Advisory Group was established following a spate of major job losses, including those at tyre giant Michelin and aerospace group Bombardier, across Northern Ireland.

The report concluded that “huge energy costs” are hurting manufacturing industry, with large firms facing costs 60% higher than the EU average.

It is understood that Mr Bell was given the report towards the end of March but has not responded to it or issued any comment.

A departmental spokesman said he is taking time to consider the comprehensive 10-page report rather than hastily issue a response.

“The recommendations of the Energy and Manufacturing Group report are wide-reaching and will greatly assist DETI and the Department of the Economy in due course.”