Portadown Youth Centre Reopens

St Mary’s Youth Centre in Portadown, County Antrim, has been reopened following the completion of a £890,000 refurbishment.

The project was funded jointly by the Department for Social Development (DSD) and the Department of Education (DE).

The centre was established in 1959 and is a voluntary youth organisation which delivers a youth work programme for the local community.

One of the centre's main problems was with the roof, which had been leaking for some time, meaning the centre could not reopen on wet days.

Speaking at the opening, Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland said: "I am delighted to see the new facilities which my Department, in partnership with the Department of Education, St Mary’s Committee and the North West Portadown Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership Board has been able to deliver for the young people of this area.

"I know the important role that youth organisations play in terms of offering structured activities which promote positive behaviour and team working among young people. This in turn creates a culture of community involvement and volunteering, helping young people to become responsible citizens and make a constructive contribution to society.

"However, the good work of this youth centre was being compromised, not least from the leaking roof, which has at times forced it to close during periods of wet weather. This project addresses those shortcomings and will bring many benefits to the young people of this area for years to come. This project is an excellent example of how the Northern Ireland Executive is delivering on its commitments to tackling disadvantage."

Minister O’Dowd said: "It is a pleasure to be here to celebrate the official opening of this wonderful newly refurbished facility and I welcome the fact that my Department has been a partner in funding such a worthwhile project. Youth organisations, like St Mary’s, provide a setting where young people can meet, make friends and take part in structured activities in a safe environment. This allows them to develop a range of skills and attributes that can help build their self esteem, improve their employment prospects and complement their learning in school.

"I have therefore continued to prioritise investment in this vitally important sector. I recently announced funding for a total of 53 capital works projects in the voluntary youth sector. The projects, at organisations right across the north, will see a further £12m committed to the sector. In addition, last month I published Priorities for Youth, which sets out the policy framework for youth work in education."

(IT/MH)