Delegates attending the Government Office North East open day on Friday, 23rd May, 2008, were given the opportunity to tour stands and exhibitions by the teams based in Citygate, and to discuss how the establishment of new teams based on places in the region will focus on delivery in Northumberland, Durham, Tyne and Wear and Tees Valley.
Government Office used the event to launch its Corporate Plan, which sets out the organisation's key aims for the next three years.
Speaking at the open day, Minister for the North East Nick Brown, said:
"We are used to working co-operatively in the North East and I am a firm believer in drawing together the work of the Government into single offices, region by region to make that co-operation more effective.
"Engaging with partners and stakeholders is key and the relationship with One North East is crucial, but other relationships, including those with local government and other sectors including health, education and the third sector are vital too.
"We may be facing an economic slowdown, but the challenge is to bring together local government and partners with the common cause of improving the lives of people in the region.
"There are exciting prospects ahead in the region across a range of areas - transport, tourism and hospitality and economic development. We can all share in that and the key to helping achieve it is the Government Office."
Jonathan Blackie, Regional Director, Government Office for the North East explained that the role of the Government Office was often unseen by members of the public, but the central, strategic co-ordinating role was crucial. He said:
"Our role in challenging, supporting and co-ordinating Government activities helps us in our aim to make the North East a great place to live and work. Whether it's tackling childhood poverty, worklessness, skills shortages, crime, drugs, anti-social behaviour, the environment transport or the economy, Government Office for the North East helps makes sure the region's voice is heard in Whitehall, and we do this with the support and input from our stakeholders."
