Delegates told social economy has key role to play

Plans to move forward the role of the social economy in Northern Ireland were discussed today at a special meeting chaired by Bruce Robinson, Permanent Secretary of the Department and Enterprise, Trade and Investment.

The meeting, which was attended by 13 groups representing the social economy, included preliminary discussions of plans for a new Social Economy Network and Forum, and details of a major Conference on the social economy being organised in Belfast by NICVA on 22 January next year.

DETI Permanent Secretary Bruce Robinson said: “The social economy has untapped opportunities and can play a key role in creating an inclusive society in Northern Ireland.

“This sector is large and diverse. It is estimated that it employs approximately 30,000 people – this is as large as the tourism industry or the construction industry.

“Social economy organisations can be broadly defined as having a social, community or ethical purpose; adopting an explicit, market-based business model; and having a legal form appropriate to a not-for-personal-profit status.

“Familiar components of the social economy include social enterprises, community businesses, credit unions, housing associations and enterprise agencies. All of these businesses are represented at today’s meeting.

Seamus McAleavey, Director of NICVA, said: “NICVA welcomes the decision to put in place this new framework which recognises that the Social Economy is a pathway to help build a strong, mixed and balanced economy that promotes equality of opportunity for the region as a whole, by promoting greater community and employee ownership.”

Ann McGregor, Chief Executive of Enterprise Northern Ireland said: “This meeting and focus on the social economy provides an invaluable opportunity for members of the social economy sector to have direct interaction with Government. Having direct input into the policy/decision making process at the highest level will enable the social economy sector to positively influence Government policy.”

(GMcG)