Social economy is untold success story says Pearson

At a conference yesterday, NIO Minister Ian Pearson praised the voluntary sector for its input into Northern Ireland's thriving social economy as an "untold success story".

The conference, entitled 'Developing The Social Economy', organised by Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) was also addressed by UK Minister for Social Enterprise at the Department of Trade and Industry, Stephen Timms.

The social economy, which employs 30,000 people, embodies "entrepreneurial zeal with a social conscience", according to Mr Pearson.

He added: “Government wants to work with social economy organisations and ensure that they have a part in shaping future economic policy.”

The NIO Minister's Whitehall colleague Stephen Timms said that social enterprises invigorate communities and create a "more cohesive society".

He added: "The commitment shown by social enterprises, towards both social and economic goals, has a vital role to play in increasing the productivity of an area. These businesses are achieving long-term, sustainable and socially inclusive growth."

Mr Pearson said that the government viewed the social economy is a priority area and was determined to realise the full potential of the sector in creating a local economy which is both competitive and inclusive.

The government will set up of a Social Economy Network to represent and act on behalf of the sector. This body would then be to lobby and contribute directly to government policy.

In addition, a package is being put in place to support the Social Economy Agency in taking forward a programme of work to support the development of the social economy in Northern Ireland.

(GMcG)