SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has welcomed the arrival of fifty-seven Syrian refugees in the North of Ireland under the Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme.
The majority of the refugees will be house in the cityside of Derry in the coming weeks after
Mr Eastwood said: “The arrival of fourteen families and twenty children from Syria is a positive statement to the world that the people of the North of Ireland are compassionate, welcoming and ready to meet our global responsibilities.
“The humanitarian crisis that has unfolded across the shores of Europe is an enormous human tragedy and continues to pose one of the most acute challenges that we have faced since the formation of the European Union.
“We have watched as women and children risk their lives, and the lives of their family, fleeing oppression.
“This is a moment to stand strong and united by our unyielding common commitment to peace, freedom from oppression and in solidarity with those facing unspeakable hardship in the Middle East.
“It is incumbent on Western Governments and nations to do all we can to address and end the incredible human pain which continues to characterise daily life in the Middle East. We cannot ignore their suffering.
“The arrival of fifty-seven refugees is a positive statement of our intent to provide whatever assistance we can. Westminster must now step up to the mark and pave the way for further assistance.”