Communities Minister has highlighted the positive
role boxing continues to play in community relations in Northern
Ireland.
The Minister was speaking as he welcomed a report by the Equality
Commission following its review of governance, practices and
procedures at the Ulster Boxing Council.
Commenting on the report, the Minister said: “Amateur
boxing is an important and growing sport which has done much for
community relations in Northern Ireland. I remain steadfast in my
belief that there must be no place for discrimination in boxing
or in any sport in Northern Ireland.
“To this end I very much welcome this report by the
Equality Commission and the recommendations put forward. Indeed
this work is essential to ensure full compliance with the Fair
Employment and Treatment (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 and the
relevant codes of practice.”
“To this end I very much welcome this report by the
Equality Commission and the recommendations put forward which are
structured in accordance with the provisions of the Fair
Employment and Treatment (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 and the
relevant codes of practice.”
The Minister continued: “In particular, I will establish
an oversight panel, under my direct control, to monitor progress
over the next 18 months. I intend to drive the change that is
required.
“My goal is to ensure that boxing in Northern Ireland is
truly inclusive and open to people of all communities, with fair
and equitable access to elite competition pathways, so that no
boxer's right to selection is ever again contested in
court.”
The Minister's statement to the Assembly is available at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/news/oral-statement-ni-assembly-communities-minister-gordon-lyons-mla-equality-commission-review-ulster-boxing-council.
