Functions of the Office of Identity and Cultural Expression

1 The principal aims of the Office in exercising functions under this section are— a to promote cultural pluralism and respect for diversity in Northern Ireland; b to promote social cohesion and reconciliation between those with different national and cultural identities; c to increase the capacity and resilience of people in Northern Ireland to address issues related to differences in national and cultural identity; d to support, and promote the celebration of, the cultural and linguistic heritage of all people living in Northern Ireland. 2 The Office must— a promote awareness of the national and cultural identity principles, b monitor and promote compliance with the duty under section 78F(1), and c report to the Assembly about compliance with that duty. 3 In carrying out the functions in subsection (2), the Office may in particular— a publish, and revise, guidance about— i the duty under section 78F(1), including best practice for complying with that duty, and ii other matters relating to national and cultural identity in Northern Ireland; b undertake, commission or support research into matters relating to national and cultural identity in Northern Ireland (including at the request of the Irish Language Commissioner or the Commissioner for the Ulster Scots and the Ulster British tradition); c provide, commission or support educational programmes, engagement and training on matters relating to national and cultural identity in Northern Ireland; d provide grants to persons with aims like those described in subsection (1); e cooperate with persons with aims like those described in subsection (1) (whether or not relating to Northern Ireland). 4 The First Minister and deputy First Minister acting jointly may direct the Office in relation to the exercise of its functions.