Politicians hear concerns over welfare reform and cuts to services

Speaking after the meeting, NICVA Chief Executive Seamus McAleavey said:

"Today's event shows the NI Assembly at its best and highlights the real power of devolution - local politicians engaging with people on issues that really matter to them.

"The threats to social security payments and the real possibility of cuts to public services are a double blow for vulnerable people. People will have less money to look after themselves and their families, lose the security of having a roof over their heads and face the withdrawal of the essential services they rely on.

"The picture is very bleak for some of our most disadvantaged and vulnerable people. The voluntary and community sector is determined to make sure that the voices of the people with the most to lose are heard at the highest levels of government. That’s why events like today are so important and we commend the Social Development Committee for taking the initiative and meeting with our sector."

DUP MLA Simon Hamilton, Chairperson of the Social Development Committee, told a packed audience of over 80 voluntary and community organisations that:

"The Committee agrees that the voluntary and community sector makes an invaluable contribution to society in Northern Ireland. Although we all expect budgets to be much tighter in future, it would be clearly wrong if the voluntary and community sector bore a disproportionate share of Westminster budget cuts."

Mr Hamilton went on to suggest that the voluntary and community sector is really the anti-poverty sector, adding:

"The work you do in tackling poverty in our deprived urban and rural areas or amongst vulnerable groups like the elderly or those suffering mental illness, often goes without praise or acknowledgement. Your sector secures matching-funding, trains volunteers and helps communities to provide essential advice and other services for themselves."

Simon Hamilton gave an interview which is broadcast on the NI Assembly website, talking about what the Committee will do with the information and feedback received.