Third Manifesto
This is the third NICVA policy manifesto, produced in a time of hope and uncertainty when Northern Ireland might see the return of devolution. The manifesto is an attempt to draw out key views from across the voluntary and community sector and to present them as a proactive policy platform which we would recommend to political parties and decision makers within government.
Community Development
NICVA believes in a community development approach and in strong links between those who govern and those who are governed. We hope that this document will help to strengthen the crucial relationships between the voluntary and community sector, government and the political parties in Northern Ireland. Its recommendations are based on the lived experience of those working across Northern Ireland on the full range of issues that affect people's lives. Joining
up what we know with the policies and resources that shape our lives is a challenge the sector is fully engaged with. We want to make an ongoing contribution to making good decisions and focusing the agenda for governance on the issues that matter most.
A Large and Varied Sector
The sector we represent is large and varied and its views can be as diverse as its members are numerous. However, this manifesto represents a concerted effort to agree and prioritise the issues that concern us most. Our aim is social change. In a time when Northern Ireland is facing major change in its institutions, its local governance arrangements and possibly its central government, the voluntary and community sector is a willing partner in making change a productive process that will bring benefits for all.
Bob Stronge,
NICVA Chair
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