A thriving local economy depends on a good community relations policy.

That's according to NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie (pictured) said that we have no choice but to tackle our segregated community if we are to thrive socially and economically.

The Minister made her comments as she opened the Community Relations Council's conference on shared space in Belfast.

The event entitled 'From Jargon to Action', provided attendees with the opportunity to hear how shared spaces might be made practical in Belfast over the next five to ten years.

Three leading thinkers on modern city planning addressed the audience from private, public, community and academic life as well as people with a practical knowledge of life in Belfast.

Margaret Ritchie said: "A Shared Future is something I believe in passionately. But it has to be built. If we had less geographical segregation in our cities, people would feel more able to move around freely without fear or intimidation. Shared space is key."

The Minister continued: "I welcome these practical discussions and the breadth of views and opinions represented. I also welcome the fact that this issue is rising up the political agenda. I can promise you that as Minister for Social Development, I will be championing work that makes our cities and towns accessible and welcoming to all."

Duncan Morrow, Chief Executive of the Community Relations Council said: "For too long, issues around sharing the future have been seen as an add-on to mainstream political debate.

"The issue of how we best use our resources for everyone, of how we ensure safety for all and how we design people in rather than wall people out are central political and economic questions.

"This event was about rethinking shared space so that it is seen as an opportunity and not a threat," he concluded.

(BMcC/GK)