Speaking at celebrations to mark the 20th anniversary of Dunluce Family Centre, Derry, he praised the service they have provided to the local Ballymagroarty community since they first opened their doors in 1989.
Martin McGuinness said: “The current economic climate presents us with new challenges in delivering our strategy to ensure our children reach their full potential.
“Both Ministers and the Executive are facing difficult funding decisions but the future of our children and young people remains a high priority. We will continue to target support at work which best delivers on meeting our key priorities,” he said.
Mr McGuinness congratulated the Dunluce Family Centre on the valuable services they provide: “Your hard work, dedication and commitment to the children and community you have served for the last 20 years is clear for all to see and deserves many congratulations.
“Children and young people are an integral part of our society, they are citizens not only of today but of the future and we want them all to develop and grow into well adjusted adults who have much to offer society,” he added.
The Lifestart Programme at the Dunluce Family Centre aims to produce better child development outcomes through educating parents on how their children develop and learn.
Notes to Editors:
- The Junior Ministers Donaldson and Kelly have responsibility for the co-ordination of policy for children and young people.
- The ten year strategy “Our Children and Young People – Our Pledge” is available on the website www.allchildrenni.gov.uk
- Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1840. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
