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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage last week hosted a welcome event for Ukrainian families in the Council Offices, Monaghan Row.
The event provided Ukrainian families from across the district with an opportunity to meet with our Chairperson and Council officers, to ask questions and discuss their experiences and life following their arrival here.
Many families have come to the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area following the invasion of Ukraine. They have arrived mainly through the two visa schemes – the Ukraine Family Scheme and the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.
Working in partnership with the Executive Office and other statutory agencies, Council has established a Ukraine Assistance Centre in Newry Leisure Centre to enable Ukrainian arrivals to access help and advice on issues such as housing, health, education, applying for benefits and legal issues. Support is also provided through the Council’s Ethnic Minority Support service operating from Newry Town Hall and the Ballymote Centre in Downpatrick.
Welcoming the Ukrainian families, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Councillor Michael Savage said, ”I am deeply moved by your stories and realise that it can be confusing and often overwhelming when you arrive to a new area. We will do everything that we can to provide you with all the necessary help and support while you reside within Newry, Mourne and Down.”
Cllr Savage concluded by thanking the many sponsors across the district who have opened their homes to Ukrainian refugees.
A similar event has been arranged to take place in Down County Museum, Downpatrick on Tuesday 15 November at 12.30pm.
