Minister advances NI Racial Equality Strategy

Equality Minister Jeff Rooker has announced the publication of a Racial Equality Strategy for Northern Ireland.

The Minister made the announcement in a Written Statement to the House of Commons.

Commenting on the strategy’s publication, the Minister said: “This statement is all the more timely following the appalling attacks in London on 7 July. These attacks were an attack on all of us. The bombs did not discriminate and people of all faiths and none and people of all racial groups have been victims.

“At this time, we should remember that communities in the United Kingdom have more that unites them than divides them and the Government is determined that the atrocities will not be allowed to create tension between our communities.

“Our vision for Northern Ireland is of a society in which racial diversity is supported, understood, valued and respected; a society where racism in any of its forms is not tolerated and where we live together as a society and enjoy equality of opportunity and equal protection.

“The publication of the strategy today sets a framework for Government and all sections of civil society in Northern Ireland to contribute to achieving that vision. The framework will allow us to tackle racial inequalities in Northern Ireland and to open up opportunity for all; to eradicate racism and hate crime; and, together with A Shared Future – Policy and Strategic Framework for Good Relations in Northern Ireland, to initiate actions to promote good race relations.

“It sets out six shared aims that will point the strategic direction for action by Departments, agencies and wider society, working individually and together, to make a significant difference to the lives of people from minority ethnic backgrounds - eliminating racism, equality of protection; equality of service provision; participation; dialogue and capacity building.”

The Minister said that government would lead by example: “It will set the pace to promote racial equality through a strong public policy agenda. Ultimately, however, sustained and deeper progress depends on political stability. It will require leadership at political, civic and community levels.”

The strategy will be taken forward through an action plan that will be developed by the Government in collaboration with the Racial Equality Forum.

(SP)