Ritchie calls on business leaders to encourage employer supported volunteering schemes

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie has praised Business in the Community and leading employers for taking a strong lead in developing corporate social responsibility in Northern Ireland.

Addressing over 100 business leaders gathered at Hillsborough Castle, the Minister challenged them to remain engaged and involved in volunteering.

Speaking at the business event, entitled ‘Celebrate and Challenge’, Margaret Ritchie said: “We must make it easy for employers of all sizes, including those in the public sector, to engage in Employer Supported Volunteering and to ensure their participation is valued and recognised.”

The Minister was keen to promote and encourage Employer Supported Volunteering as part of Northern Ireland's Corporate Social Responsibility agenda.

Reinforcing her commitment to volunteering in the workplace the Minister went on to say: “Employees’ range of skills and experience gained through volunteering is an invaluable resource for employers. It encourages staff to engage with local people, to contribute to the local economy and to develop themselves as individuals. I would therefore urge employers to recognise this within their workforce and to become actively involved.”

Welcoming the Minister to the business event, John McGregor, Director of Business in the Community said: “Over 100 business representatives joined us at Hillsborough Castle tonight for two reasons: to celebrate our achievements over the last 20 years and to meet the challenge of deeper engagement with us in the future. Engaging with Business in the Community and committing to corporate social responsibility is a win-win situation for industry and society.

"Our organisation has always argued that healthy backstreets equals profitable high streets and with parts of Northern Ireland enjoying continued economic prosperity, it’s vital that we close the gap, as social deprivation continues to grow in areas across Northern Ireland.

"My thanks go to Minister Ritchie and all our speakers who attended on the night. They provided real inspiration and I have no doubt they struck a chord with delegates, all of whom are committed to the cause of corporate social responsibility.”

Notes to Editors

1. News Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078 / 07970 976894. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.
2. The event, entitled ‘Celebrate and Challenge’ was hosted by Business in the Community was held in Hillsborough Castle