Opening of St Peter's Immaculata Youth Centre- 20 January 2010

Ladies and Gentlemen:

Firstly, thank you to St Peter’s Immaculata Youth Centre for inviting me to open this wonderful newly refurbished facility. I want to acknowledge the good work that is already going on here with the support of my own Department, the Department of Education and of course the Parish of St Peter’s itself in providing vital services for youngsters.  This facility is an example of the benefits that working in partnership across disciplines and remits within communities can have.

This work, and indeed, excellent facilities such as this, helps to promote positive alternatives for young people and can help to contribute to the reduction of anti-social activities and crime prevention.  It lifts self esteem and helps to make the area safer and more pleasant to live in for its residents.  It provides real opportunity for skills development, and promotes the recognition of the importance of children’s and young people’s needs and engagement in community regeneration.  I commend the Management Committee of St Peter’s Immaculata Youth Centre and all involved in its long history over 65 years of provision of youth services in this area.  

It is clear that growing up in the 21st Century is more challenging than it has ever been.  In the last decade we have seen unprecedented changes for young people in Northern Ireland. Dramatic transformations in family structures, work patterns and mobility have all contributed to changing the designs of upbringing within families.  Reduced time to be with parents and families bring their own consequences for children and young people.  As a result, young people’s lives have become more complex and pressured at an already challenging emotional stage in their development; and for some there is a lack of positive influences or role models in their lives.  We cannot act as if there is not a problem in our society.  In some cities we have seen many young people lose their lives because of violence and lack of positive influences.

This facility offers young people a safe, purpose-built environment that will contribute to their health and well being by providing programmes and activities such as: an after schools project; a computer club; self esteem and confidence building programmes to tackle issues such as substance abuse and bullying – along with sporting activities and health and well-being programmes that will challenge and entertain as well as providing a much needed facility in the Falls Area.

We are all aware of the world-wide financial crisis and of pressure on local budgets to reduce spend and improve service provision. These are indeed difficult times.  However I am pleased to say that under Neighbourhood Renewal my Department recognises the value of youth provision and has committed approximately £1.4 million per annum across Belfast until March 2011 in revenue costs to facilities providing youth services.  

In conclusion, once again I am delighted that I was invited to participate in this event and thank the St Peter’s Immaculata Youth Centre Committee for inviting me.  I know that this newly refurbished facility will continue to open its doors to all young people of this area and with a listening ear, develop its programmes to meet their needs.  I leave you with my best wishes for continued success in your great work.

Thank You