Junior Ministers call for applications to Minority Ethnic Development Fund

Junior Ministers Robin Newton and Gerry Kelly today called for applications to a £1million funding scheme for community and voluntary organisations working with or representing minority ethnic communities.

The funding scheme, which will run until the end of March 2011, will support work which contributes to the promotion of good relations between people of different ethnic backgrounds, the building of community cohesion, and facilitation of integration.

Speaking after welcoming a group of parents and children from Craigavon Intercultural Programme’s Women’s Group to Parliament Buildings Junior Minister Kelly said: "We continue to work on a daily basis to tackle racism and discrimination. This funding scheme is directly targeted to bring improved relations at the local level and build more cohesive and integrated communities."

Junior Minister Newton added: "This funding is a practical response to the changing situation on the ground where our society has become more diverse. It is also further evidence of our commitment to supporting the vital work performed at the local level. While we are determined to provide what leadership we can, we recognise it is at the local level work where real change takes place."

The Minority Ethnic Development Fund is available for the 2010-11 financial year, ending on 31 March 2011. The application process will be open until the 25 January 2010.

Notes to editors:

1. Details of OFMDFM’s Minority Ethnic Development Fund are available from OFMDFM website.
2. Photograph available on request by called OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1595.
3. Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1595. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.