Northern Ireland needs an "over-arching approach" to the cultural, arts and heritage sectors, highlighting their importance in building resilient communities, growing a stronger economy and achieving a more inclusive society, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has said.

Minister Hargey was speaking as she launched 'The Way Forward' document, which proposes a co-design approach to developing a strategy for the sectors.

The document advocates a 'whole of government' approach to recognising the role of culture, arts and heritage in driving inclusive growth and social change.

Minister Hargey said: "Culture, arts and heritage make a positive impact on a range of central and local government priorities.

"It is important to highlight the importance of culture, arts and heritage in strengthening and promoting the people, organisations and places which make such a difference in our lives and communities.

"Together we can fully unlock the potential of these sectors and realise our shared ambitions"

The Way Forward document sets out a timetable for a draft vision and strategy by Spring 2023.

The strategy proposed would then be put forward for statutory public consultation.

This co-design approach follows the work of stakeholders who shaped emergency responses to the Covid pandemic and who called for a longer-term vision and strategy to support recovery.

Minister Hargey continued: "This is a reflection on what I've heard from a wide range of stakeholders in their calls for a co-designed 10-year vision as the basis of a five-year strategy.

"I want to advance that co-design process so a draft vision and strategy can be brought forward by Spring 2023 for subsequent wider public consultation.

The Minister concluded: "I want to empower these sectors to shape better ways for them to be fully recognised and supported as key drivers of change.

"Let's bring culture, arts and heritage centre stage."