Communities Minister has recognised the vital role
of the voluntary and community sector at a US Leadership Forum in
Washington DC.
Addressing the Sustaining Peace Amid Changing Times event,
organised by the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action
(NICVA) and with speakers from Co-Operation Ireland and NI
Alternatives, the Minister said: “I am proud of my
department's leadership in supporting the voluntary and community
sector in Northern Ireland.
“As Communities Minister, I see daily how our third
sector organisations make a valuable contribution to delivering
for people right across Norther Ireland. I am proud to lead the
way in promoting the value of the sector across all Executive
departments and other funders.
“Our voluntary and community sector partners are uniquely
placed to anticipate and meet the needs of people and
communities.
“They play a key role in supporting the delivery of the
Executive's programmes to sustain a healthy economy, address
poverty and support wellbeing.
“Collaborative working with the sector allows my
department to support people to live independently, to gain
meaningful employment, as well as driving local regeneration and
the development of sports, arts and culture.”
The event brought together an international and domestic audience
to explore the vital role of the not-for-profit sector in
Northern Ireland, particularly in relation to driving positive
change in communities.
Reflecting support of US partners to the sector, the Minister
said: “It has been 30 years since the ceasefire in
Northern Ireland paved the way for peace. Since that time, our
friends in America have shown unwavering support and belief in
what Northern Ireland could achieve. Your commitment to our
country and your support to the work of our voluntary and
community sector has been invaluable and truly appreciated. As we
look ahead to the challenges that lie before us, we do so knowing
that we have a partner in the United States, and I look forward
to another 30 years of working together and strengthening our
longstanding connections.”
Speaking on behalf of event partners, Celine McStravick, CEO of
NICVA, said: “St Patrick's week in Washington is a key
opportunity to influence policy and investment in Northern
Ireland. Our leadership forum, delivered in partnership with
Minister Lyons, Co-operation Ireland and NI Alternatives, ensures
that the vital work of the voluntary and community sector is
highlighted and that our role in underpinning social and economic
development in NI is clearly understood.”
