SDLP Communities Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has welcomed an additional funding package of £10.8 million for the voluntary and community sector.
Mr Durkan added while this cash injection, which will become available in October, is good news he insisted that funding options must be explored for groups excluded from previous financial support as well as other sectors at risk of collapse.
Said the Foyle MLA: “I welcome the security this funding will bring to organisations who provided vital services and support to some of our most vulnerable throughout the pandemic.”
“However, it is important to note that there are other groups out there who sadly have not been able to access support from the Department to date, whose futures are threatened as a result.
“I would implore the Department and Minister Ní Chuilín to engage with those particular groups.
“Other sectors such as the Arts also await further intervention and investment to ensure their survival.
“It is essential that any future funding allocations take them in to consideration, to ensure that every organisation can access some level of financial aid- no one should be left behind.”
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