Smart Solutions campaign to hear from Minister

NICVA has been lobbying government throughout the summer to highlight how poorly considered cuts would have unintended consequences, and would inevitably cost the Executive more in the medium term. Speaking ahead of the event, NICVA Chief Executive Seamus McAleavey said that the entire Executive is facing the most demanding period since its formation:

“The Northern Ireland Executive needs to show that it has the strength of purpose to deal with the enormous challenge which lies ahead. Recently I called upon the Executive to come clean with the people of Northern Ireland about the scale of the hole in our finances, and look forward to hearing from Alex Attwood as to his, and the broader Executive’s plans to protect vulnerable people from being punished by poorly considered cuts.”

He continued:

“The voluntary and community sector is concerned that the temptation to cut successful, efficient and cost effective programmes outside of the public sector may be seen as an easy way out for those making decisions, with immense unintended consequences. The consequences for decision makers of unfair and disproportionate cuts are likely to impact on the most vulnerable people in our society. We will await the Minister’s comments with interest.” 

Speaking ahead of the event, the Minister said that he will do everything in his power to protect those in society who desperately need the services provided by the voluntary and community sector.

Alex Attwood said:

“I value the significant contribution of the voluntary and community sector in working with government to deliver social, economic, cultural and environmental change. The Executive is facing serious constraints on budgets.  The economic climate is constantly changing and difficult decisions will have to be made. The best way we can minimise the effects in these tough economic times is to ensure that what we support produces results – there must be a focus on outcomes.  However, we need to work together to ensure that the most vulnerable in our society are protected, that challenges are faced and opportunities are grasped to allow our economy to grow.”

It is recognised that the budget settlement for Northern Ireland 2011 to 2015 will be harsh and is likely to lead to a reduction in real terms of £1.2 billion over the four years.  In all, 45% of the income of the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland comes from government sources, via departments, non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs) and other agencies.  Most of that money buys services from the voluntary and community sector (VCS) and assists government in achieving its objectives.

Programme for Monday 6 September event

2.30 Welcome and introductions
Bob Stronge, Chairperson NICVA

2.45 Tough Times - the decisions facing the NI Executive and the role of the voluntary and community sector
Alex Attwood MLA, Minister for Social Development

3.15 Smart Solutions: the voluntary and community sector as part of the solution
Seamus McAleavey, CEO, NICVA

Case studies (a number of voluntary and community organisations will outline their work and the impact it has in their communities)

Providing value for money public services: Maeve Monaghan, The NØW project

Protecting against the impact of the recession: Stephen Reid, North Belfast Advice Partnership

Providing a unique service: Gillian Creevy, Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children

Strengthening communities and building cohesion: Bertie Shaw and Noel Rogan, Seacourt Community Council

4.15: Questions and reflections