22/09/2005

Hanson hears concerns of north Belfast community

Social Development Minister David Hanson has reinforced the Government’s determination to deliver a co-ordinated, cross departmental approach to tackling deprivation.

Mr Hanson was speaking during a visit to north Belfast today following the Secretary of State’s announcement of his enhanced role in tackling social deprivation. Mr Hanson heard at first hand from community and elected representatives about the difficulties faced by communities in the area.

The Minister said: “The Secretary of State has asked me to embark upon a process of intensive engagement with elected representatives and community leaders, particularly those from loyalist and unionist communities.

“DSD has recently provided over £2 million to community groups in north Belfast providing vital services such as education and training, advice, health and childcare. I am determined that all Government departments will place the needs of the most deprived people and places at the heart of their work. Tackling disadvantage is not easy. There is still much more that we need to do to combat deprivation in the places where it is the worst.”

During his visit to north Belfast the Minister met people involved with the Cliftonville Community Regeneration Forum and the Vine Centre which is situated in the Lower Oldpark area. Both projects are situated in wards, which are recognised as being in the top 10% most deprived areas in Northern Ireland.

(MB/SP)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

13 November 2002
£3m announced for north Belfast community groups
A £3 million funding package aimed at developing communities in north Belfast to encourage dialogue and partnership has been announced by the NIO today.
05 December 2005
Tackling deprivation is 'priority' says Hanson
Social Development Minister David Hanson has reinforced the Government's determination to place the needs of the most deprived areas at the heart of its work.
15 August 2002
Focus shifts to peace conference and community projects
After weeks of paramilitary violence and civil unrest the Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) is refocusing its efforts on the benefits of the current peace process.
08 April 2002
Minister's updated on North Belfast Community Action Project
First Minister, David Trimble, and Deputy First Minister, Mark Durkan, have met with the Chairman of the North Belfast Community Action Project, Rev Dr John Dunlop and his Vice Chairmen, Monsignor Tom Toner and Mr Roy Adams.
02 September 2005
West Belfast community group gets £40k funding
A west Belfast community group, set up to deal with so-called joyriding and other forms of anti-social behaviour, is to receive a £40,000 boost from the Government, it was revealed today.