Northern Ireland Community Relations Council - About Us - Council Minutes

14 November 2003

Minutes of the

Policy Development Committee Meeting

Friday 14^th November 2003

Present: Robin Wilson (Chair for meeting), Edwin Graham, Roise Ni Bhaoill, Damien McElroy.

In attendance: Dominic Bryan (Guest Speaker), Duncan Morrow, Jacqueline Irwin, Dympna McGlade, Peter Thompson.

Apologies: Patricia O'Neill, Ali McAlister, Nelson McCausland, Declan O'Loan

Minutes and Matters rising from last meeting

Mr Wilson informed the meeting that due to the forthcoming election the Shared Future Conference has been rescheduled for January 25^th 2004.

Ms Irwin commented that CRC has a vested interest in the SF response and that she is working on CRC's Strategic Plan, which must carry on regardless.

Mr Wilson agreed to edit draft 5 of the Good Relations Framework in preparation for publication.

After discussion on the Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy it was agreed that Dave Wall, DSD be invited to the next meeting for further discussion. Mr McElroy also agreed to develop a discussion paper on neighbourhood renewal for the North West.

Language Research has been passed on to the Communications Committee for comment on next steps. Awaiting response.

It is anticipated that the outcome of the Race Relations Consultation will be published around April/March next year

Race Forum postponed till after elections.

Congratulations to group winning award at City Hall and thanks to Ward and Edwin for acting as judges.

Flags and Emblems – Dominic Bryan

Mr Bryan gave an overview of the flags and emblems research work he is engaged in with OFMDFM. Following in-depth discussion he agreed to develop a paper for CRC and present it at the Policy Conference to be held in Spring 2004.

Role of PD Committee and 'current events'

Current issues will be a feature on CRC Council agenda. The PD Programme will develop a mechanism for researching and reporting on current issues.

Mr Wilson proposed that discussion on the outcome of the elections and the review of the GFA.

The topic of a Truth and Reconciliation for NI will discussed by the PD Committee at a later stage.

Mr Graham was interested in exploring the issue of Children and Sectarianism and recommended that Paul Connelly be invited to speak at a future meeting.

Spring Conference

The key themes will be the recommendations emerging from the Shared Future consultation.

PD Programme feedback

Policy Development Programme staff presented short overviews of their respective areas of work

AOB

Newtownabbey research due end of month. Fee Ching Leong to present her findings at next meeting.

David Russell appointed as Policy Development Officer – Starting November 26^th.

Next Meeting - 16^th January 2004, 2pm, CRC