EDUCATION Minister Michelle McIlveen has described the opening of a new £3.3 million facility for a long-established Derry youth club as a “great day” for the Creggan area.
Ms McIlveen was speaking at the official opening of St Mary’s Youth Club yesterday. Established in 1972, it was a peaceful haven for young people through some of the darkest days of the Troubles.
The new building includes youth club facilities as well as meeting rooms and staff accommodation. With a membership of more than 1,000 young people, St Mary’s operates seven nights per week. It provides personal development, one-to-one counselling and creative and sporting activities, including boxing and gymnastics.
"This is a great day for everyone at St Mary's Youth club and the wider community in Creggan. The new facility provides much needed fit-for-purpose accommodation for current and future children at the young people in the local area," Ms McIlveen said.
"This has been a significant investment worth in excess of £3 million, showing my department’s commitment to providing help and support in the voluntary youth sector."
Education Authority spokeswoman, Arlene Kee said the Creggan club created essential programmes and initiatives for young people.
"The staff and volunteers provide a safe space where children and young people can explore their values and beliefs through very effective programmes and initiatives," Ms Kee said.
