Social Development Minister David Hanson has announced further progress in his department’s work to help the Sandy Row community in south Belfast.

The Minister said he was determined to ensure that the Sandy Row report, which was published in January by a team of civil servants working in the area, will be implemented as soon as possible.

"I will be giving priority to the suggested actions for improvement, including many in relation to the delivery and effectiveness of public services," Mr Spellar said.

"My Department has already provided Neighbourhood Renewal Phase II funding for three key posts in the Sandy Row Community Forum and has facilitated the recruitment process for these posts. Two of the three posts have been filled with active recruitment proceeding for the third."

The Minister also confirmed that his department had drawn up an action plan for the Sandy Row Community Forum, assisted local community groups and participated in local education initiatives.

He continued: "My Department is also negotiating the proposed provision of a resource centre and is working within the community and Government Departments to influence discussions whilst facilitating Departmental officials to participate and work with groups in the area.

"I am determined to maintain the momentum generated by both the Sandy Row and Greater Village Reports and my Department is actively recruiting a Neighbourhood Manager who will work with Departments, the local communities and the newly formed South West Belfast Partnership to bring forward the actions outlined in both reports. I have also promised that I will return to the area early in the New Year to give an update on progress to the local community," he concluded.

(MB/SP)