Derry City Council will today be urged to back a campaign calling for the setting up of a detox centre in the North West.
The call for such a facility intensified following the tragic death of Galliagh teenager Andrew Quigley.
Andrew (19), from Knockalla Park, took his own life after losing out to a drug and alcohol addiction.
His body was recovered from the River Foyle just over four weeks after he went missing on 18 January this year.
It emerged the tragic teen had sought help but was informed none was available unless he quit his habits.
A number of other families in the city revealed their loved ones also took their own lives after finding themselves in similar situations.
Fionnbarra O Dochartaigh.
Andrew’s family have been to the forefront of the campaign for the setting up of a detox centre here.
Veteran civil rights campaigner, Fionnbarra O Dochartaigh, who has been calling for a detox centre to be established for a number of years, will today tell a special meeting of the Council’s Regional Services Committee there would be less suicides in the region if such a facility was available for those struggling with addictions.
Speaking previously, he said: “Over the years I have met relatives of those who died prematurely, some dying suddenly from over-dosng on drugs or alcoholic abuse.
“Several of these, usually youngish men, some I knew personally, had been refused treatment based on need to comply with “drying out’ pre-condition.
“I also believe there would be less suicides, real or suspected, in this region if such a detox unit was established at the earliest possible opportunity.”
He concluded: “When the political will exists, the funds will…”
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