Menu
22/01/2003
Social economy is untold success story says Pearson
At a conference yesterday, NIO Minister Ian Pearson praised the voluntary sector for its input into Northern Ireland's thriving social economy as an "untold success story".
The conference, entitled 'Developing The Social Economy', organised by Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) was also addressed by UK Minister for Social Enterprise at the Department of Trade and Industry, Stephen Timms.
The social economy, which employs 30,000 people, embodies "entrepreneurial zeal with a social conscience", according to Mr Pearson.
He added: “Government wants to work with social economy organisations and ensure that they have a part in shaping future economic policy.”
The NIO Minister's Whitehall colleague Stephen Timms said that social enterprises invigorate communities and create a "more cohesive society".
He added: "The commitment shown by social enterprises, towards both social and economic goals, has a vital role to play in increasing the productivity of an area. These businesses are achieving long-term, sustainable and socially inclusive growth."
Mr Pearson said that the government viewed the social economy is a priority area and was determined to realise the full potential of the sector in creating a local economy which is both competitive and inclusive.
The government will set up of a Social Economy Network to represent and act on behalf of the sector. This body would then be to lobby and contribute directly to government policy.
In addition, a package is being put in place to support the Social Economy Agency in taking forward a programme of work to support the development of the social economy in Northern Ireland.
(GMcG)
The conference, entitled 'Developing The Social Economy', organised by Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) was also addressed by UK Minister for Social Enterprise at the Department of Trade and Industry, Stephen Timms.
The social economy, which employs 30,000 people, embodies "entrepreneurial zeal with a social conscience", according to Mr Pearson.
He added: “Government wants to work with social economy organisations and ensure that they have a part in shaping future economic policy.”
The NIO Minister's Whitehall colleague Stephen Timms said that social enterprises invigorate communities and create a "more cohesive society".
He added: "The commitment shown by social enterprises, towards both social and economic goals, has a vital role to play in increasing the productivity of an area. These businesses are achieving long-term, sustainable and socially inclusive growth."
Mr Pearson said that the government viewed the social economy is a priority area and was determined to realise the full potential of the sector in creating a local economy which is both competitive and inclusive.
The government will set up of a Social Economy Network to represent and act on behalf of the sector. This body would then be to lobby and contribute directly to government policy.
In addition, a package is being put in place to support the Social Economy Agency in taking forward a programme of work to support the development of the social economy in Northern Ireland.
(GMcG)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
26 June 2003
Forum to provide voice for social economy issues
Organisations involved in the social economy in Northern Ireland must have a voice and a platform to help shape future economic policy. That was the message from Enterprise Minister, Ian Pearson who was addressing the first meeting of the newly formed Social Economy Forum.
Forum to provide voice for social economy issues
Organisations involved in the social economy in Northern Ireland must have a voice and a platform to help shape future economic policy. That was the message from Enterprise Minister, Ian Pearson who was addressing the first meeting of the newly formed Social Economy Forum.
20 September 2010
Foster Welcomes Investment in Society
A significant boost for NI's 'social economy' has been warmly welcomed by a Stormont Executive Minister. Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said that the partnership that is offering social enterprises in Northern Ireland access to a £10m investment fund was good news.
Foster Welcomes Investment in Society
A significant boost for NI's 'social economy' has been warmly welcomed by a Stormont Executive Minister. Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said that the partnership that is offering social enterprises in Northern Ireland access to a £10m investment fund was good news.
13 September 2024
BCC Launches New Social Economy Incentive Fund
Belfast City Council has announced the launch of a new £90,000 fund to incentivise and boost Belfast-based social enterprises and co-operatives.
BCC Launches New Social Economy Incentive Fund
Belfast City Council has announced the launch of a new £90,000 fund to incentivise and boost Belfast-based social enterprises and co-operatives.
06 October 2022
Poots Welcomes New Bangor Social Farm
Rural Affairs Minister, Edwin Poots MLA, has welcomed the launch of a new social farm in Bangor funded by his department's Rural Social Economy Investment Scheme. Behind the Stable Door Ltd is a social farm that provides those with a disability or illness the opportunity to participate and work on a farm.
Poots Welcomes New Bangor Social Farm
Rural Affairs Minister, Edwin Poots MLA, has welcomed the launch of a new social farm in Bangor funded by his department's Rural Social Economy Investment Scheme. Behind the Stable Door Ltd is a social farm that provides those with a disability or illness the opportunity to participate and work on a farm.
18 November 2024
DAERA Minister Outlines Path To Net Zero For Northern Ireland
DAERA Minister, Andrew Muir, has outlined a roadmap for Northern Ireland to transition to a net-zero economy. Speaking at the 2024 Re[Act] Festival in Belfast, he emphasised the urgent need for ambitious climate action.
DAERA Minister Outlines Path To Net Zero For Northern Ireland
DAERA Minister, Andrew Muir, has outlined a roadmap for Northern Ireland to transition to a net-zero economy. Speaking at the 2024 Re[Act] Festival in Belfast, he emphasised the urgent need for ambitious climate action.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
