From now until 16 January the Department for Regional Development will be conducting an intensive consultation process to assess the equality impact of the draft Programme for Government, draft Investment Strategy and draft Budget, in so far as these documents individually and collectively relate to the Department’s functions.
Launching the consultation the Minister said: “I want to hear the views of the public and stakeholders on what my Department hopes to deliver on the ground and the associated equality impacts. I am keen to ensure that optimum positive equality outcomes are achieved. I would encourage all stakeholders and Section 75 groups, especially those most affected by transport policies including women, people with disabilities, older and younger people to let me have their views.”
Under the Executive’s draft Budget proposals the Department’s Current Expenditure allocation would increase over the next three years to 2010 -11 to some £288 / 309 / 335 million each year, and the Investment allocation would increase to some £569 / 416 / 420 million each year.
The consultation document will be circulated to key stakeholders and representatives of Section 75 groups for comment and is available on the Department’s website at www.drdni.gov.uk/publications-details.htm?docid=4001
The Department also plans to hold a series of consultation meetings in January 2008. Full details of locations and venues will be placed in the Press.
Notes to Editors:
Details of the draft Programme for Government, Investment Strategy and budget are available on the Programme for Government and Budget website www.pfgbudgetni.gov.uk.
All media enquiries to DRD Press Office, tel. 028 90540887. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
