Ritchie offers help to Derry neighbourhood renewal groups facing closure

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie today announced interim arrangements to help alleviate the funding difficulties faced by some groups funded under Neighbourhood Renewal in Derry.

The Minister said: “I have already stated that all groups currently funded, citywide or otherwise, could apply for extension funding until 31 March 2008. In order to help any of these groups facing financial difficulties in the interim, I have introduced arrangements that will allow the Department to issue an advance payment to those who have not yet had their Contract for Funding extended.”

The Minister appealed to groups to liaise with her officials as they work to deal with the funding applications. “If any group is facing immediate closure I would appeal to them to contact the Department’s North West Development Office. Such groups will have their applications prioritised.”

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