To ask the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister when it intends to bring forward for consultation the draft Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration; and to outline the reasons for the delay to date.

We are now at an advanced stage of development of the detailed proposals for a ‘Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration for a shared and better future,' which was signalled in the Programme for Government. The specific objective (PSA 7.5) commits us to implement the programme during this current year 08/09.

OFMDFM officials briefed the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister on the position regarding development of the proposed Programme in early April. The consultation document will be put to the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister shortly.

The new programme will tackle the complex and longstanding issue of sectarianism as well as the more recent issue of racism which is affecting both the established communities as well as new arrivals. It will build on the excellent work which is already being done, particularly by district councils and community organisations, to address the challenges which local communities are facing. Action to tackle sectarianism, racism and intolerance will be at the core of these proposals. As this policy is pivotal to achieving ‘a peaceful, fair and prosperous society in Northern Ireland with respect for the rule of law' we are ensuring that the Programme proposals will contribute to this aim.

We have repeatedly stated our commitment to working towards building a society at ease with itself, where everyone who lives here is regarded as of equal status and is treated as such – the new programme will work towards this.