SDLP Foyleside Councillor Mary Durkan
But she has called for a longer-term solution to protect the invaluable resource for researchers, academics and historians all around the world.
The CAIN (Conflict Archive on the INternet) website includes information and source materials on the Troubles and politics in the North from 1968 to the present day, and is regularly updated by dedicated staff.
There has been uncertainty surrounding the archives of international acclaim due to lack of secure funding.
This week it was confirmed that Irish government funding of over €66,000 has been secured via the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Reconciliation Fund.
Miss Durkan said: “CAIN is a vital source of information about the Troubles, and it has been utilised and valued by historians across the globe.
“When Ulster University’s proposal to close the website was put out for public consultation over a year ago, the universal response was loud and clear.
“Hundreds of researchers and representatives of various learning institutions signed petitions.
“High-profile academics wrote letters and made public statements calling for the facility to remain open.”
The SDLP councillor added: “This recent intervention by the Irish government represents a further reprieve and short-term relief, but we still must ensure all avenues are explored for a longer-term solution.
“I understand that this funding will cover a specific project, enabling the completion of the final phase of the Chronology of the Troubles.
“CAIN’s presence in Derry, along with the UN Conflict Resolution Centre, INCORE, represented John Hume’s lasting legacy in Derry.
“The relocation of the latter from Derry to Belfast was a blow to that legacy.
“We must do all within our power to protect CAIN’s presence in our city.”
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