Published 08 November 2011 @ 14:17
The Northern Ireland Strategic Migration Partnership (NISMP) brings together representatives from local government departments, local councils, public services, the voluntary and community sector and the UK Border Agency to provide a regional voice on migration policy in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland has been experiencing a shift in immigration trends in recent years, for many decades this region experienced more outmigration than inward but since 2004 we have witnessed a significant increase in the rate and volume of migrants. While there are contemporary indicators that net migration to NI is falling, there is none the less significant evidence that many are still choosing to settle here. Numbers of children of mothers born outside of the UK and Ireland continue to rise, and school census figures indicate that almost 3% of primary school children have a first language other than English. Public services, the workforce, and neighbourhood dynamics are bound to be impacted by such changes. However with sufficient planning, collaboration and resources, positive outcomes have and can continue to be produced and negative impacts contained.
Speaking following the funding announcement, Alderman Arnold Hatch, Chairman of NISMP said: “As a Partnership, we harness knowledge and best practice to support a strategic, long-term, regionally approach to migration here in Northern Ireland. This is a body which reaches across sectors and government and has the support of each of the political parties, all of which are represented on the board. With this renewed funding, the board looks forward to continuing the great work that has already been done, and to develop new and innovative approaches to gleaning the resources and richness that migration can bring”
NISMP Partners:
UK Border Agency
Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister
Department of Education
Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Department of Justice
Department of Social Development
Northern Ireland Housing Executive
Police Service of Northern Ireland
Department Employment and Learning
Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission
Northern Ireland Congress of Trade Unions (NICICTU)
Law Centre NI
Multicultural Resource Centre
Community Relations Council