Community groups receive funding boost

NIO Minister John Spellar has today announced that funding of almost £235,000 is to be allocated to community organisations in north Belfast.

The funding is being allocated under the North Belfast Youth Development Programme, which aims to support youth work across North Belfast.

Mr Spellar said: "Today’s announcement is good news for the people of North Belfast. It will help build upon work started last year, by enabling community groups in the area to carry out a wide range of activities aimed at diverting young people away from conflict.

"While the prime focus is on providing support for young people, particularly in the 18-25 age group, it will also encourage community groups to work together in partnership and to address local issues.

"I know that the Youth Development Programme makes an important contribution to improving community relations in North Belfast and I commend everyone involved. I look forward to seeing at first hand the results that have been achieved."

The groups receiving funding are: Ardoyne & Marrowbone Youth Development Partnership, Oldpark/Shankill Consortium, Ligoniel Active Citizenship Project, Mount Vernon and Locality Consortium, Ethnic Inclusion Through Sport, Ballysillan Youth Consortium, Greater Greencastle Consortium, Upper Shankill/Upper Ardoyne Consortium, Greater New Lodge, Cliftonville Youth Development Project, Vine Consortium, Upper North Youth Consortium, Duncairn & Mountcollyer Consortium, and Scoutlink – North Belfast Citizenship Project.

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