Parliamentary Reception
Posted on 28th November 2011 by Sue Titterington
Our Chief Executive Jim Cullen recently attended a Parliamentary Reception for the Caritas Social Network in the Houses of Parliament at which 40 MPs and Peers were present to listen to ideas and concerns.
This was part of the aspirations of the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales to effect a "deeper social engagement." Jim had conversations with a number of those present, expressing our immediate and long-term concerns, notably with Lord Touhig (see photo).
Archbishop Vincent Nichols made a presentation , at which he welcomed the opportunity afforded to those present working in social action to raise their thoughts and concerns with our politicians. Archbishop Vincent referred to the severity of the challenges facing us in the coming months and years, where the effects of economic austerity and cutbacks are already being felt disproportionately by the most vulnerable. The increase in youth unemployment, the pressure on housing provision and support and the impact of personal debt are bringing hardship to those least able to sustain them. It was important that we address these challenges in the correct way , so that decisions taking place here in Parliament on the future of the social security system, the health system and the criminal justice system are shaped by a practical recognition of the needs of and really influenced by the experience of those on the front line of this work . In this regard the work of Caritas Social Action Network, and events such as the present one , were important, and the Archbishop added, he urged MPs and Peers to utilize the wealth and creativity available in this gathering. He took the opportunity to congratulate, thank and encourage the member organisations of this Catholic network in their continued work.
A full copy of the presentation is available through the Caritas Care reception.
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