Givan launches ‘Next Steps Together’ Report

Communities Minister Paul Givan MLA, today launched the ‘Next Steps Together’ report which sets out how the North West Cultural Partnership (NWCP) can continue to build and grow as a lead cultural provider in the North West.

The research which was initiated by the NWCP, aimed to ensure that the organisation continued to build on the important work already done but also sought to develop ideas and plans on delivering a collaborative and more structured approach to cultural development for its members and their respective groups. The Department provided £11,500 to the Partnership for the research activity in 2015/16, as part the City of Culture legacy funding.

Launching the Report, the Minister said: “This report and its findings reaffirms that the North West Cultural Partnership is recognised as an organisation that works hard to contribute to local cultural development and peace building throughout the North West.

 “There is no doubt about the abundance of creative talent and ability which exists in the North West and the City of Culture year clearly demonstrated that. We must recognise and respect the diversity which now exists in our society and that the NWCP will be a key vehicle for ensuring that cultural activity is available to everyone within the community.”

The Minister added: “The North West Cultural Partnership are to be commended for initiating this research and will no doubt take forward and implement the recommendations contained in the report including the challenges of dealing with the past, the legacy of the conflict, inclusion and cultural equality which will further enhance the valuable work that it does in addressing these important issues.

Notes to editors: 

1. The North West Cultural Partnership is currently made up of a core group of six organisations:
   Londonderry Bands Forum
   Bready and District Ulster Scots
   Sollus Cultural Promotions
   Blue Eagle Productions
   Sollus School of Highland Dance and
   The Bob Harte Memorial Trust.

   There are also some individual members including Kenny McFarland (Chair of the Londonderry Bands Forum), Andrew Lynch (Londonderry Bands Forum educational outreach worker) and Frank Carey (local historian).

2. Copies of the ‘Next Steps Together’ Report can be obtained from the North West Cultural Partnership.
3. For media enquiries please contact the Department for Communities Press Office 028 90 829494 or email press.office@communities-ni.gov.uk. For out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned

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