Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what plans are in place to ensure long-term sustainability of the community and voluntary sector.
Minister for Communities: The Voluntary and Community Sector is made up of a diverse range of independent, self-governing organisations delivering across a wide spectrum of social outcomes. The sustainability of the Sector as a whole depends on many factors, including government and non-government funding and sustainable volunteer effort.
My Department works to support a thriving and sustainable sector by supporting the Sector’s working relationship with government and building capacity in the Sector.
My Department convenes and co-chairs the Joint Forum between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector, which includes representation from across the voluntary and community sector and all Executive departments. A new Partnership Agreement between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector, developed by the Joint Forum received Executive approval on 5 June and will be published shortly. My Department also provides a significant level of infrastructure support to the Sector.
Work to refresh this investment is ongoing, to ensure future programmes are targeted at addressing current and emerging needs. I remain committed to continued investment in the voluntary and community sector, to provide support for those working and volunteering in the sector; strengthen sustainability and deliver long-term impact.
ENDS
Your MLA 