Equality crucial to our future - Empey

5 June 2008

Employment and Learning Minister Sir Reg Empey today highlighted the importance of equality in both the Northern Ireland and European contexts.

Speaking at the opening of the European Commission’s fifth Annual Anti-Discrimination Thematic Conference, Sir Reg said:  “Northern Ireland, and indeed the wider European Union, is undergoing a period of unprecedented and far-reaching change. As we become a more diverse society, it is vital that no-one is excluded from our economic, social or cultural life. My Department, through the EQUAL Community Initiative Programme, is committed to ensuring that no-one is denied access to employment.”

Highlighting the Conference theme of “Communicating Equality and Non-Discrimination in the European Union”, Sir Reg spoke of the challenges to equality presented by an expanding European Union, saying: “Although we can legislate to try and encourage equality and social inclusion, these things will only be truly forthcoming when they are embedded in the hearts and will of everyone in Northern Ireland – when everyone sees that a fair, just, equal society is good for us all. That is why effective communication of equality matters – the theme of this conference - is so important.”

Sir Reg also paid tribute to the work of the European Commission in fostering a culture of equality and communicating the vision of equality to all.

NOTE TO EDITORS:  

  1. The European Commission has organised its fifth Annual Anti-Discrimination Conference for 5 and 6 June 2008 in the Waterfront Hall, Belfast.
  2. Media queries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on 028 9025 7872.  
  3. Out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.