David Hanson announced plans to help disadvantaged loyalist areas

David Hanson made the announcement during a visit to west Belfast's Shankill area on Tuesday.

He said one of the group's first tasks would be to take forward the findings contained in a taskforce report.

It highlighted that government policy was not impacting on Protestant working class areas.

"Targets will be set for this work and regular assessments against these targets will be maintained," Mr Hanson said.

"I believe the solution lies in securing better engagement and participation of local communities to ensure effective delivery of public services."

He said the government wanted to deliver tangible benefits to people on the ground.

The minister added that he wanted to experience the reality of life in areas like the Shankill which had "deep-seated problems".

"I am keen to meet as many people as I can, and to use that knowledge to steer the work of the delivery team."

Mr Hanson also confirmed plans were under way on a new initiative to combat sectarianism in NI.

Shankill community worker John MacVicar said: "I hope the delivery team will get down and talk to the community.

"They need to listen to what they have said, and more importantly respond to what is being said, and respond rapidly."