Northern Ireland Community Relations Council - About Us - News - Rally in Support of Community Relations

25 June 2010

As you will be aware, the Department of Education has decided to make a drastic cut in Community Relations provision with in both Schools and Youth Work. There are many of us who feel, regardless of subsequent job losses, that to let the loss of this vital work to disappear unchallenged would be foolish, untimely and ultimately endorsing of a bystander culture.

As a result, and with the support of the Alliance Party, we have decided to organise a rally in support of Community Relations and to encourage our Assembly and the Executive not to give up just yet and to endorse the work. This rally will not be a negative attack on the Department, but instead an endorsement of good Community Relations work and the ongoing need for it in the presence of a divided society.

So far we have confirmation of attendance from a number of community organisations, schools, parents, children, MLA's, teachers and other members of the various communities affected by this decision. We know that we have approx 80 coming, but we need more. The more people at the rally, the more impact we will have.

We will be meeting at the gates of Stormont at 12pm and then walking to the front steps, where we will be met by MLA's. An address will be given at 12.30pm in support of our work, including a presentation of letters and art work from children and parents who have been involved in and benefitted from Community Relations work and who know the real impact of it.

If we rely on others to stand up for our sector there may be no sector left to represent us, so we need as many attendees and therefore voices as possible. Please show your support for the work by attending the rally and by forwarding this onto anyone else you think may be interested.

If you require any further information please contact David Price on 07756396005.