HC Deb 21 June 1990 vol 174 cc691-2W
33. Mr. David Shaw

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much his Department spent on community relations in 1989–90; what he is proposing to spend in 1990–91; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Mawhinney

Measures directed at improving the relationships between the different parts of the community in Northern Ireland have a high priority in Northern Ireland public expenditure plans.

In 1989–90 around £2.6 million was spent on community relations programmes supported by the central community relations unit and the Department of Education. In 1990–91 it is proposed to spend £3.984 million.

In addition, all Northern Ireland Departments are required to take account of the impact of their policies and programmes on community relations in the Province. As such, many mainline expenditure programmes make an important contribution to healing community divisions.

The main objectives of community relations programmes are:

  • —to ensure that all sides of the community enjoy equality of opportunity and equity of treatment;
  • —to develop cross-community contact and co-operation;
  • —to encourage the development of mutual respect and understanding.

45. Mr. Hague

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he is taking to bring Protestant and Catholic schools together to foster better community relations; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Mawhinney

In October 1987 I introduced the cross-community contact scheme to stimulate cross-community schools and youth and community groups to undertake projects on a cross-community basis.

Since its introduction some 400 schools—about one third of all schools in Northern Ireland—and 300 youth community clubs have applied for assistance under the scheme which has a budget in 1990–91 of £500,000.

In addition, and in support of this scheme, I am providing funds to the Ulster folk and transport museum for residential and teaching facilities in which groups from both communities can meet and work together.

As part of education reform in Northern Ireland I have also included education for mutual understanding and cultural heritage as compulsory cross-curricular themes. These will not only improve the awareness of all children of the various strands in our cultural heritage but provide a framework within which opportunities for contacts between schools can be increased.