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Sinn Féin representatives are committed to finding a resolution for parents and children attending the Early Years Children and Family Centre in Newry, following the devastating news that these services will cease at the end of the month.
Dáire Hughes MP said “Parents have been told that both the Nurture Cove and Reaching Further programmes will cease from September 30th.
"We have been contacted by a number of parents who are distraught at this news. Many rely on these excellent services and have been given very little notice about their termination.
"These daycare and community pathway services are essential for children with disabilities in our community. There is a serious need for these services, which both empower and support children and their parents”
The Newry & Armagh MP added “We have spoken with both Early Years and the Trust. They have confirmed that services are being ceased due to the loss of a suitable venue, and that funding is not an issue.
"Our priority is therefore to find suitable accommodation for Early Years in Newry, so that these services can continue.”
Newry & Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins who recently raised the issue with the Health Committee in the Assembly, has asked the Minister to ensure all avenues are being explored to find a solution to this critical issue.
The Newry MLA said “The provision of services for children with disabilities and their families is already very limited, and any further reduction is absolutely detrimental.
"It is imperative a solution is found urgently. We will continue to work with all the relevant bodies to get a resolution for parents and children in Newry”.
The MLA continued “The Trust and Early Years have stated that they have been working to secure alternative accommodation, but at this time they have been unable to do so.
"We would encourage the Trust and Early Years to engage with all relevant stakeholders in the Newry area to enhance their search for alternative accommodation, and secure these services for the time ahead”.
Concluding Liz said it is essential that a resolution is found. “Parents and children who use these services are understandably angered by this announcement. Many of them depend on these vital services for both their children’s development and to help them balance work or care for other family members.
"It is essential that a resolution is found to allow services in Newry to continue. We will continue to work with parents, the Trust, with Early Years and with any other relevant stakeholder to help secure services into the future.”
