The Ministers were speaking following the announcement of a fresh round of funding under the minority ethnic communities funding scheme.
The scheme is designed to support the work of community and voluntary groups in the promotion of good relations, community cohesion, and integration between people from different racial groups, including the majority community.
The First Minister said: “This funding scheme will provide vital support for voluntary and community groups and their work on improving relations between different ethnic groups and the majority community.”
Dr Paisley continued: “Ultimately it is our aim to ensure that minority ethnic communities are in a position to access mainstream funding. Through this funding we will enable the sector to continue its vitally important work.”
Funding is for one year until March 2009. In the longer term, this funding will form an important part of our proposals for a Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration for a Shared and Better Future” which was announced in the Programme for Government.
The deputy First Minister said: “As well as providing support to members of their own communities, minority ethnic voluntary organisations play a vital role in fostering good relations and integration and acting as a voice for ethnic minorities.
“Of course, minority ethnic people cannot integrate themselves into our society without welcome and acceptance from host communities. We are encouraging indigenous organisations which are working with minority ethnic people to apply for funding too. Their working in promoting good race relations and reaching out to minority ethnic people is vital.”
The funding for Minority Ethnic Voluntary Organisations will build on the current three year fund which is due to expire on the 31 March 2008.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 2.00pm on 10 March 2008.
Notes to Editors:
- For further information contact Racial Equality Unit, Block 5, Knockview Buildings, Stormont Estate. Tel: 028 9052 2996
- Application forms and guidelines may be obtained from Racial Equality Unit, Block 5, Knockview Buildings, Stormont Estate, Belfast Tel 028 9052 2293 or via the OFMDFM website
. - Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
