Northern Ireland's First Minister has accused the Government of sending out representatives to talk down the North's economy.

Arlene Foster also said there was an attempt under way to poach investors south of the border.

The DUP leader was speaking at her party's annual conference, where she said political instability in Dublin and fears about its future are driving the Government's policies on Brexit.

The DUP was the only Stormont party to back Britain leaving the European Union, although a majority of voters (56%) voted to remain.

Ms Fosters' remarks reflect the complex relationship between Stormont and Leinster House, which she claims are as good as at any time in history.

However, she also said that the one place where a 'hard border' exists is in the minds of the Government.

Despite this, she said she is "happy to welcome shoppers looking for a bargain across the border anytime they want to come."

Ms Foster also expressed confidence that companies will continue to invest in Northern Ireland.