Chris Lyttle MLA said: “I welcome the publication of the long overdue Racial Equality Strategy. It is now important that the First and deputy First Ministers also commit to an adequate level of funding and an appropriate action plan for this strategy. It will not succeed unless it has the resources and actions to deliver its goals.
“While I am pleased to see this document finally published, it is not the strategy the Alliance Party would have written. Work begins now to ensure the final version will be strong enough to improve community relations, promote inclusivity and protect ethnic minorities. Alliance will spend some time considering our full response to the document but I would encourage everybody to get involved in the consultation process
“Change happens when people step forward. It is clear that the First and deputy First Ministers were forced into releasing this strategy after thousands took to the streets in Belfast at two rallies, demanding that it was published without further delay. Two weeks ago, the Assembly passed an Alliance amendment that also called for it to be published, so I am glad that they have listened to the will of the Assembly.”
ENDS