Robinson praises Bryson Group contribution to Social Economy

First Minister Rt Hon Peter Robinson, MP, MLA yesterday addressed the AGM of Northern Ireland’s leading Social Economy Enterprise, the Bryson Charitable Group.

Praising the work of the Bryson Group, the First Minister said: “The Bryson Charitable Group is a major player in Northern Ireland, with a recognised brand synonymous with service to the community. Its continuing success is a role model for others to aspire to.”

Mr Robinson went on to express the Executive’s support for the social economy. He said: “Their £355m turnover makes SEEs a small but important part of the wider community and voluntary sector in Northern Ireland, often delivering public services to communities which are in greatest need in ways that government agencies cannot.

“The Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment is leading in developing the Executive’s refreshed Social Economy Enterprise Strategy to build on achievements to date. It has been taken forward in partnership with stakeholders from across the sector, and those Departments with a key role to play in developing the sector.”

Highlighting the role the Social Economy can play in improving people’s lives, Mr Robinson issued a challenge to the social economy sector: “We are about to embark on a public consultation of our new Sustainable Development Strategy. Social enterprise is integral to the principle of sustainability, and I hope that many of you here today will provide input into the consultation process.”

Notes to editors

1. DETI is leading in developing the Executive’s refreshed Social Economy Enterprise Strategy to build on achievements to date. The new Strategy will be delivered in partnership across Government, for example, DETI will be working with DARD to support the sector through opportunities within the Rural Development Programme, DEL will be working to develop and professionalise the sector, through access to appropriate training, DHSSPS will be working to promote awareness of the opportunities for the Health and Social Care bodies to take advantage of the services that Social Enterprises can offer.
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