Deputy First Minister Committed To Building A Diverse And Equal Society

Opening the conference entitled 'Cross Border Partnerships in Multicultural Communities' in the City Hotel in Derry, Mr McGuinness spoke of his vision of a society based on tolerance, equality and respect where diversity and difference is valued.

He underlined the Executive's commitment to embracing the development of a diverse and equal society while recognizing that challenges existed.

He said: "Bringing those to account who perpetrate hate crime is the responsibility of police and justice systems.

"However tackling the beliefs and attitudes which drive and sustain hate crime is the responsibility of us all. Let us be clear there can be no hiding place, no ambiguity, and no acquiescence to any form hate crime.

"The First Minister and I are working towards building a society at ease with itself - a society that is integrated, cohesive and where diversity is valued.

"Where everyone who lives here is regarded as of equal status and is treated as such."

The conference is a joint initiative organized by the Foyle Multicultural Forum, the Police Service of Northern Ireland and An Garda Síochána to explore the issues surrounding living and working in a diverse society.

Mr McGuinness went on to emphasize the importance of working in partnership while maintaining a continual dialogue to share experiences and good practice.

He said: "Through the process of conflict resolution we have learnt that dialogue is more than talking to someone.

"Dialogue is more than just speaking; it is about listening, absorbing, respecting and reflecting.

"Intercultural dialogue is about moving beyond mere tolerance of difference towards a transformed society where cultures can exchange and interact constructively with mutual respect.

"The future that we are building here for all people must be founded on intercultural dialogue at every level of society."