§ Mr. DoddsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much was allocated to combating racism in Northern Ireland in each year since 1997. [187414]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyYou asked about the level of funding provided to combat racism in Northern Ireland since 1997.
As I and my ministerial colleagues have repeatedly stated publicly the nature and evidence of racist-inspired violence and harassment of minority ethnic communities in Northern Ireland is both abhorrent and unacceptable to all right-minded people.
In response, action continues to be taken across Government and in partnership with our colleagues in the statutory, voluntary, community and business sectors aimed at combating it and redressing the distress of those suffering it.
It is also the intention of the various funding initiatives to help build the capacity of the communities concerned and the good relations with regard to the other communities here.
In the years since 1997, the following funding has been allocated to support minority ethnic communities as well as addressing racism within Northern Ireland:
Sum awarded (£) 1998–99 883,944.41 1999–2000 794,547.09 2000–01 284,194.42 2001–02 701,857.46 2002–03 1,401,293.33 Total 4,065,836.60 The table details the total funding made available from the following range of sources for the period 1 April 1998 to 31 March 2003 inclusive:
1641W
- European programmes managed by Government Departments;
- Equality Commission NI;
- Community Relations Council; and
- Government Departments and non-departmental bodies.
The funding has been provided to meet core funding central management and administrative costs, and enable organisations to develop and provide services.
Details of funding provided since March 2003 is currently being collected and will be advised by supplementary answer at the earliest opportunity.