Minister sending right message on volunteering

10.46.10am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 27th Jul 2006

Alliance North Down Councillor, Ian Parsley

Young Alliance Chair Cllr Ian James Parsley has said the Social Development Minister's announcement of nearly £3 million funding from the Community Volunteering Scheme designed to attract volunteers to work on projects to do with mental health, disability and youth sends the right message on the importance of volunteering.

The North Down Councillor stated: "Rightly, such funding is always carefully scrutinized to see if it is being put to best use and there will be some disappointment from those involved with projects that missed out.

"However, the Minister is sending the right signals with this funding package. It shows, at the very least, that the Government is listening to the message, put forward by the Alliance Party consistently over the past months, that volunteering is essential.

"In particular, volunteering is an essential part of broader education for young people, many of whom can be proud of their achievements working both here and abroad to improve other people's lives.

"I trust that there will be ongoing dialogue between funders and providers who rely on volunteers to ensure volunteering is promoted and supported."

ENDS