Sinn Féin MP Pat Doherty has welcomed the announcement from DCAL Minister Caral NiChuilin that she has committed to investing in a number of projects based in and around the Strabane and Castlederg area.
The investment is part of the overall commitment which was given to building on the success of the City of Culture and to create a lasting legacy for the North West.
A range of projects are being supported, from arts and theatre to the purchase of outdoor and event delivery equipment.
The investment will also see the purchase of high tech digital media and IT equipment for four cultural hubs such as i-pads, computers, scanners and colour printers amongst other items.
Speaking this week the local MP said, “I welcome this major investment announcement from DCAL Minister Caral NiChuilin towards community organizations in the Strabane district and I welcome her visit to West Tyrone this week to meet the groups which will benefit from the funding.
“I have worked alongside the minister over the past number of months identifying areas of need within the district and where this funding could be targeted best.
“Funding is being provided to organisations for outdoor, event delivery and sporting equipment.
“Strabane and District Caring Services will receive £45,000 for a minibus for community transport and the purchase of craft equipment for community cultural activity.
“Other organisations within the Mourne Area Partnership will benefit from the funding allocations including Cairde Republican Ex-Prisoners (£10,000) the Strabane Health Improvement Project (£6,000) and Strabane Sigerson’s GAA who will receive £9,500.
“Other groups which will benefit from provision of new equipment are Churchtown Community Association, Castlederg, Lisnafin/ Ardnalee community group, SECA, Fountain Street Community group, Sollus Centre, SAFE and Strabane District Council.
“Provision of equipment will also allow these groups to enhance their existing provision and help them to make a real difference to people’s lives. This is an example of how community groups working in partnership can deliver social change.
“I would like to commend the groups involved for the hard work put in working alongside DCAL officials to ensure the Strabane district benefitted from this funding I would also like to commend Sinn Féin Minister Caral NiChuilin for committing to the North West once again by developing innovative approaches to economic and social challenges.”
