Junior Minister Donaldson: Workplace Is Key To Integration

Speaking at the event Mr Donaldson said: "We in the Executive remain fully committed to moving towards a cohesive, shared and integrated future where different cultures are embraced and where everyone can access their full rights."

"In this ongoing effort we see the workplace as being absolutely key. It is in our workplaces that friendships are developed, communities strengthened, and where true integration can begin."

"The draft Program of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration, which will be published shortly, is designed to tackle issues affecting both established communities and new arrivals. It will build on some of the excellent work which is already being done, particularly by district councils and community organisations, to address the challenges which local communities are facing."

"After consideration by the Departmental Committee we hope in the near future to put the program out to full consultation to ensure it receives the full benefit of everyone's experiences and expertise. While we in the Executive want to provide leadership on the new programme, it is essential that local communities, including minority ethnic communities, have an integral role in the planning and delivery of the new programme."