Representatives of the four social partners (CBI, ICTU, NICVA and UFU), who make up the Board of Concordia, started a two day visit to Brussels today (Wednesday) to meet with European Commission officials. 

The Concordia Board members will brief a number of senior Commission officials, on how the European Union can help to facilitate the development of a more peaceful, sustainable, and prosperous Northern Ireland. In addition to explaining some of the key economic, social and environmental challenges which Northern Ireland is currently addressing they will highlight the value and contribution that the Peace and Reconciliation Programmes have made in recent years.

The Concordia Chairperson, Nigel Smyth, said “This visit has two key purposes. To ensure we are aware of key developments in Brussels which may have a specific impact on Northern Ireland, and to ensure that the Commission is fully aware of the challenges and issues on the ground in Northern Ireland. In particular we need to convince the Commission that Northern Ireland wants to stand on its on two feet. But to achieve this transition we will continue to need ‘assisted area’ status after 2006 – this is critical if Northern Ireland is to become a high value-added, highly skilled, innovative and enterprising economy. We have to have the tools to help the private sector to grow faster, create more wealth and provide better employment opportunities.”

NICVA Chief Executive, Seamus McAleavey said “The European Union has been a valuable friend to Northern Ireland over many years. But we cannot take their future support for granted, especially with the development needs of the new member states. It is important that we ensure officials understand some of the unique challenges which we face, as well as ensuring the lessons we have learnt can be more widely shared.”

The Concordia Board will stress to the European Commission representatives that Northern Ireland faces a major transition and change management process which will require a sustained approach. And while highlighting significant progress which has been achieved over the last 10 years they will emphasise that the process has still a long way to go.

Follow the link to view the Concordia Briefing document