The Minister was presenting the first Northern Ireland Community Achievement Awards which recognises the work of community groups and the Housing Community Network Awards for individuals.
The aim of the awards is to identify and promote community groups and individuals by recognising their work and giving them the opportunity to showcase it and provide others with positive ideas.
Stressing the importance of such work to the development of communities, the Minister said:
“There are many individuals and community groups across Northern Ireland doing valuable work in support of the communities where they live. Many local initiatives have been developed and implemented which have made a significant difference to the lives of many people. Much of this work is known only at a local level and I am glad of the opportunity to formally recognise it through these awards.
“The work of such groups is helping many people make important choices by providing them with the right advice and information on lifestyle and housing. They play a key role in community development.”
The awards ceremonmy was jointly hosted by the Northern Ireland Tenants Action Project and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
Notes to Editors:
The Northern Ireland Community Achievement Awards and the Housing Community Network Merit Awards will be an annual event organised jointly by Northern Ireland Tenants Action Project and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
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