The MLA for East Belfast was speaking earlier this week after attending a ‘Sport in the Community’ project earlier this week.
Funded by the Department for Social Development, the Irish Football Association AND Ulster Gaelic Athletic Association came together through the Good Relations Forum to explore the impact of sport in building community relations.
Chris Lyttle MLA said: “Sport is a great tool to unite the whole community. However there are still many challenges facing sporting organisations across Northern Ireland as they come together to build better community relations
“Both the IFA and GAA have made great moves in promoting good community relations in recent years and this event is continuing on that good work.
“Sport is an essential uniting activity that can build bridges across divides, installing pride in communities and creates a sense of mutual trust and respect from all involved.
“I want to praise the work of the IFA and GAA. As we work towards a shared future players and volunteers from all sport across Northern Ireland can learn from their example.”