To ask the Minister for Communities how she will ensure Community Planning Partnerships work as key delivery partners for the Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity over the next budget period.

In developing the new Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity a co-design approach led to engagement with over 200 different representatives and organisations including the Community Planning Partnerships. This extensive process has led to a thorough understanding of the needs of our communities, including those who are under-represented or not physically active.

Operationalising the strategy will include ensuring that the strategic partners, including the Community Planning Partnerships, align their programmes and projects with the key themes and goals set out in the new Strategy. With regard to the Community Planning Partnerships SportNI, as a statutory partner in the Community Planning Partnerships and as an Arms-Length Body of the Department, will have a key role in ensuring that there is alignment with the Strategy.

In addition, the arrangements for overseeing delivery of the Strategy will include a number of forums which will have senior representatives from other Government Departments, local Councils and key stakeholder groups.