NICVA and voluntary and community sector representatives meet with Northern Ireland Secretary of State

NICVA Chief Exec Celine McStravick said: “It was excellent to talk with the Secretary of State and to tell him about the incredible impact our sector has in Northern Ireland each and every day.

“As well as this, however, we spoke about the very serious impact budget cuts will have on people in every community.

“Young people and older people, women, those seeking a way back into employment, those with disabilities and people wanting to access community transport, and those living in poverty – our sector helps everyone, and they are all being affected by budget cuts and funding uncertainty.

“Now is the time to reimagine our relationship with government, we need to switch from funding to investment, and to be recognised as equal partners in delivering on the promise of Northern Ireland”.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Rt Hon Chris Heaton-Harris MP said: "My thanks to Celine and NICVA's representative organisations for their time today. I will continue to listen intently to the views of voluntary and community organisations in Northern Ireland.

“The work they do to support communities through difficult times is incredible.

"That includes their work on the ground, supporting the most vulnerable communities with the challenges of the cost of living.

“My hope is to see the devolved institutions working for communities and delivering local governance to suit local needs. This remains my focus."

Members of NICVA’s Executive Committee and Senior Management Team, including Chief Executive Celine McStravick and Vice-Chair Charlene Brooks, with the NI Secretary of State, Rt Hon Chris Heaton-Harris MP at NICVA’s Headquarters.