AQO 6502/11-15

Mr Stewart Dickson
Alliance Party
East Antrim

Tabled Date: 19/06/2014
Answered On Date: 01/07/2014
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the recent comments by the Chair of the Community Relations Council on the prospects of removing all interface barriers by 2023.

Answer:

I agree with Peter Osborne’s recent comments and indeed those of Dr Adrian Johnston, IFI Chairman, that working towards the removal of ‘peace walls’ is complex, difficult and challenging work, and they are correct in highlighting that a lack of resources is a risk to progress.

It is clear to me that there are three main issues that need to be addressed to make progress. The lack of a dedicated programme budget is one. The need for a cross Executive commitment to address economic and social renewal is another. The need for continued and intensive good relations work is the third. These issues remain key to achieving the target of removal of barriers and must be addressed.

I know for local engagement there is a real need to tackle physical, economic, social and community renewal within interface areas. The Department of Justice cannot deliver this magnitude of change alone. It requires a properly funded programme which brings together the community, statutory bodies and voluntary groups. I believe that the Executive needs to address the issue comprehensively so that we see meaningful change in interface communities. I hope we can move forward soon.