The Deputy First Minister today attended a workshop in Derry's City Hotel on the draft Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) on the Regeneration Plan for the city.

The EQIA summarises the practical steps which Ilex has taken to mainstream Equality in the development of the Regeneration Plan and represents the final element of the formal consultation process.

Speaking at the event, he said: "Through the use of pioneering and innovative methods, Ilex has put mainstreaming equality at the forefront of the Regeneration Plan with over 1,000 people from across the city having been involved in its development. The young and old; the unemployed; the private sector and public bodies, indeed all sections of society, have had their say on what matters to them."

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Mr McGuinness said that in these difficult economic times it is vital that resources are targeted at those most in need and he commended Ilex for their approach to the Regeneration Plan.

He said: "In taking time to craft this Plan Ilex has ensured that those communities most affected by disadvantage and neglect have a voice in the decision making process and the potential outcomes which will be part of shaping their future.

"The Regeneration Plan is securely grounded on robust, socio-economic research highlighting the challenges and opportunities that our city faces within the next two decades.

"Its aim is to deliver economic, physical and social renewal for our city and our people. It provides a roadmap for recovery for the city and the EQIA represents a key stage in its development," he concluded.

(GK)