Re-New TSN Now Let's Target Social Need

Author(s): P. McGill
Commissioned by: Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA)
Document Type: Report
Year: 2001
Publisher: NICVA
Place of Publication: Belfast
Subject Area(s): Economic Issues

Abbreviations: TSN - Targeting Social Need, NI - Northern Ireland, OFM/DFM - NOffice of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister

Background to the Research

  • The report is designed to provoke debate on TSN and New TSN in NI after ten years in operation.
  • The focus of the report is on the process and planning as well as the tangible outcomes and impacts of New TSN.
  • Inability to state the actual effect on the socially disadvantaged and excluded has brought the universal effectiveness of New TSN into question.

Research Approach

  • Research focuses on the publication of redundant plans, examples of delays between the first and final drafts, and aspects of 'Making it Work', other than time, within each of the eleven government departments.
  • The impact of TSN since its introduction in February 1991 is also gauged using statistical analysis. Bar charts and tables are accompanied by written explanations of the key points.
  • A breakdown of NI specific statistics is taken from secondary sources. They include a breakdown of economic growth since 1991, inequality in earnings between 1990 and 2000, unemployment figures, by ward and DC level, TSN compared to non-TSN area statistics, education and health statistics.

Main Findings

  • The report provides eight recommendations for the way ahead. As the recommendations are not based on a wide debate, the recommendations are quite general. From these general recommendations it is hoped that a more detailed proposal will eventually emerge.
  • Recommendations include the possibility of an OFM/DFM initiated debate on the need to develop policy that will combat the main causes of social need. The strategy should focus on real issues of poverty and disadvantage.
  • The strategy should have primary targets based on key indicators including poverty, income, employment, the environment, health and education.
  • Close liaison should be maintained with the United Kingdom Government on the key issues and also with the Republic of Ireland Government on their National Anti-Poverty Strategy.

 

 

Home | About ORB | Contact


Disclaimer: © ORB 2001Wednesday, 26-Mar-2003 16:13