SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan
Said the Foyle MLA: “I welcome the Minister’s announcement and his intervention has, effectively, saved this service which itself has saved lives here since its establishment.
“This will come as a relief to staff but even more so to service users, for whom CCIS has been a lifeline in their darkest hours.
“I would like to thank the Minister, who clearly recognises the value of this project having now twice stepped in to save it.
“I now appeal to him to identify a stable, sustainable funding model that enable this service to thrive and continue to save lives.
“No one wants to be back here in six months’ time trying desperately to avoid the service’s closure.
“The outlook is not good for mental health, demand is growing, waiting lists are spiralling – the closure of this service would not only have reduced the support available to people when they are most vulnerable but would also have compounded hopelessness and despair.
“We fought hard to get this badly needed and sadly needed support in Derry and we will fight any attempt to withdraw it or run it down.
“Thanks to the people of Derry and beyond who have supported the service and our campaign to save it.”
Tags: