Shadow Secretary of State says the work of voluntary and community sector can accelerate positive social change.

SSoS Vernon Coaker, NICVA CEO Seamus McAleavey

Speaking at an informal meeting with NICVA members Vernon Coaker said he was delighted to be back in Northern Ireland and had made it a priority to meet with the voluntary and community sector as early as possible. 

The meeting discussed abroad range of issues including welfare reform, the upcoming decade of commemorations, equal marriage, the referendum on Europe and open government.  The Shadow Secretary of State reflected on the role of the voluntary and community sector across Northern Ireland saying “work of voluntary and community sector can accelerate positive social change” He added that even in these difficult circumstances the sector needs to redouble our efforts to speak out on behalf of the people we work with and "government needs to recognise the crucial role you play.”

Welcoming the SSoS back to NICVA Seamus McAleavey said “many voluntary and community organisations had a positive working relationship with Vernon during his last tenure in NI and we hope that can be re-established. The meeting today is very much the start of that process.”

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