The new custom built resource centre situated at College Square North, has been part financed by the European Union through the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister.
The centre will provide important opportunities to young people from all backgrounds to participate in activities that will help them to respect and understand differences.
Speaking at the opening ceremony the deputy First Minister commended YouthAction NI for the important work it has done with young people over the last 60 years.
Martin McGuinness said: “YouthAction NI has an excellent track record in helping young people to be at ease with difference and to acknowledge one another as equals. Its valuable work in building social cohesion is an inspiration.
“I have only admiration and respect for the youth workers you see here today. The example they set in improving the lives of our most troubled children and young people is a guiding beacon for us all to follow.”
Director of YouthAction NI June Trimble MBE, thanked the deputy First Minister for his encouragement and support: “The Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, the International Fund for Ireland and the Department of Education have had the courage to invest in this magnificent building which will make a significant difference to the lives of young people throughout Northern Ireland.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- YouthAction NI, founded in 1944 is a leading voluntary youth organisation with its headquarters in Belfast and other locations in Armagh, Carrickfergus, Londonderry and Crossmaglen.
- The organisation aims to enable disadvantaged young people to achieve their full potential and to be active and equal citizens whose voices are heard, respected and valued.
- The new facility will house a variety of innovative and externally evaluated, flexible services to benefit those young people suffering most from social exclusion, the impact of community conflict, lack of educational and employment opportunities and who have not benefited from traditional schemes.
- For media enquiries please contact Jeremy Gardner, tel: 07917 544 140. Outside office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
