Government taskforce targets Sandy Row and Village areas

Social Development Minister, John Spellar has announced a Government initiative aimed at tackling problems in the Sandy Row and greater Village area of Belfast today.

Mr Spellar said that a Taskforce of senior civil servants was set up recently to look at different and more effective ways of tackling problems facing Protestant working class areas such as Sandy Row and the Village.

“The Taskforce has recommended that it is time for more focused action by a small team of civil servants and this work will begin in the Sandy Row and greater Village areas and take about three months to complete," the Minister said.

“Political and community representatives have argued that despite the ongoing work of Government and its agencies with working class communities generally, particular difficulties in Protestant working class areas remain.

"Representatives argue that these are evidenced through poor delivery of public services, limited access to funding programmes and difficulties for young people in terms of educational attainment and access to employment.”

The Sandy Row and Village areas have been in the spotlight recently following the circulation of sectarian leaflets in these predominantly Protestant areas of south Belfast.

A large apartment block was also picketed by loyalists following alleged provocation from residents within the Donegall Road site.

However, despite such problems Mr Spellar acknowledged that much good work was already being carried out by local community leaders. “The efforts of community leaders have contributed to greater peace and cohesion in our communities," the Minister said. "However, there remains much work to do. We owe it to our young people in particular to improve their educational attainment and access to employment opportunities.”

The Taskforce to address the needs of working class Protestant areas was established in March 2004 and is made up of senior Civil Servants from all Government Departments.

(MB)