Joint Chairs' Communique 29 May 2003

New way of operating for the Joint Forum

Following discussion on how best the Joint Forum could focus on relationships between the voluntary and community sector and government, it was decided that some in-depth work in small groups would form part of each agenda. More items will come in the form of written briefs so as to leave time for discussion of issues which relate to how government and the sector can work together. The minutes will now reflect a semi-Chatham House rule style of discussion, where contributors will not be named, allowing more freedom to discuss things openly.

Presentation by Duncan Morrow on A Shared Future

Duncan Morrow, Chief Executive of the Community Relations Council, gave a presentation on the consultation document A Shared Future. Mr Morrow pointed out that the Joint Forum is an embodiment of bridging, bonding and linking social capital and thus is a good forum in which to discuss this issue. The presentation was followed by lively small group discussions focusing on the implications for the sector and government in implementing policy on A Shared Future. It was agreed that this would need a strategy with substantial resources, major promotion akin to the scale of promotion of the Good Friday Agreement, examination of evidence of good practice, and that government should advertise the true costs of separation and formulate indicators of progress. All agreed that leadership will be essential in this process.

Underspend in Peace II

There was discussion of feedback from the Peace II Monitoring Committee where it was reported that by the end of this year around €240 million should have been spent and only around €40 million has so far been spent. The conclusion reached at the Monitoring Committee meeting was that there is no way that the €105 to €115 million in jeopardy of being clawed back by the European Commission should be allowed to be lost.

Insurance for voluntary and community organisations

The Forum was given an overview of new NICVA research which shows that on average organisations’ payments for insurance had risen from around £8,500 to almost £13,500 per year. Forum members highlighted that compensation awards in the courts are now so high in Northern Ireland that the claims culture is having a damaging effect. It was noted that risk assessment can reassure insurance companies that organisations are taking their risk seriously.There was discussion on addressing the claims culture in the long term as this will undermine social capital and discourage local activities.

Study visits planned

A study day was arranged in September for Joint Forum members to visit projects together to see first hand some of the issues being faced by voluntary and community groups.

Minutes of Joint Forum Meetings

Further information and minutes of meetings are on DSD’s and NICVA’s website – www.dsdni.gov.uk and www.nicva.org - they can also be obtained from the Joint Secretariat through Frances McCandless , NICVA 028 9087 7777 or Jenny Black, VCU 028 9056 9322.