Ministers Launch Call To Action For 'Inclusive Future For All'

The First and deputy First Ministers have announced the launch of Good Relations Week – a 'call to action to create a brighter, inclusive future for all'.

Launched at an event in Girdwood Community Hub, Belfast, Good Relations Week 2024 is taking place from 16 to 22 September 2024 with this year's theme being, 'OpportUNITY'. Last year over 220 Good Relations Week events were hosted with every council area represented.

Organisations which help deliver good relations activities attended today's event, together with World boxing champion Carl Frampton.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "The Good Relations Week programme of events showcase the vital role of good relations work in peace building and community cohesion. On behalf of the Executive, we were delighted to join with the Community Relations Council in supporting the launch of Good Relations Week 2024.

"This annual celebration highlights the positive peace building work already being delivered, while also looking at the changes we can all make and the opportunities available to support our shared and sustainable communities. "Now more than ever we need to work together, making the most of every opportunity to create a positive future for everyone within our society. We would therefore like to encourage all organisations to get involved in Good Relations Week this year."

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: "We are delighted to celebrate the launch of Good Relations Week 2024.

"Improving community relations and continuing our shared purpose to improve relations that reach much deeper and wider into our communities is an important part of the Executive's 'Together: Building a United Community' (T:BUC) Strategy.

"We are committed to building stronger, more connected communities where everyone is valued, heard and included. We want to work with new and existing partners to deliver a shared society for everyone. The programme of events delivered as part of Good Relations Week provides the perfect opportunity to extend this partnership working and to engage with new communities.

"I would encourage everyone to visit the Good Relations Week website and to consider hosting an event this year."

The Community Relations Council is inviting registrations from local community groups, voluntary organisations, statutory bodies, businesses and local councils to host an event that aligns with the theme of 'OpportUNITY' and showcases their outstanding good relations efforts.