Children live in 'severe poverty'

from the BBC

More than 40,000 Northern Ireland children are living in severe poverty, according to a new report.

The Committee for the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister said it was part of an overall figure of 100,000 living in poverty.

The interim report includes written submissions from more than 40 key stakeholders.

Committee chair Danny Kennedy said the degree of poverty was unacceptable in the 21st century.

"The committee therefore welcomes the commitment within the Programme for Government to work towards the elimination of child poverty by 2020 and to work towards the elimination of severe child poverty by 2012," he said.

"These are, however, very challenging targets and the committee urges the first minister, deputy first minister, and the executive, to examine the submissions received by it."

Mr Kennedy said they should use the proposals put forward within the report to strengthen the short to medium-term targets and actions on tackling child poverty within the Programme for Government, investment strategy and budget.

The figure of 44,000 represents 10% of Northern Ireland's child population.

The committee aims to conclude its inquiry into child poverty in spring 2008.

It will begin hearing oral evidence later on Wednesday.