§ Mr. Altonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the Departments of Education (Northern Ireland) will use the powers in the Northern Ireland Youth Services Order 1975 to pay grant aid directly to community groups normally grant-aided by district councils; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. MawhinneyI have no plans to use powers to make grant payments direct to community groups. District councils are best placed to take decisions on the needs of these groups. I regret that Belfast city council has recently failed to fulfil its responsibilities to its community groups. The Government have, however, taken special action to ensure the payment of grants in Belfast and will be keeping the position in this and other district council areas under review.