Omagh Boys and Girls club encouraged by public support

OMAGH Boys and Girls Club said it has been greatly encouraged by public support after the Education Authority (EA) refused to grant over £130,000 in vital funding to the local youth facility.

 

Over 400 young people are members of the club, which is due to celebrate its 70th anniversary next year. As first reported in the UH last week, the club is ‘fearing for its future’ after the EA rejected a funding request for £130,000.

 

Paddy McMahon, secretary of the club’s management committee, warned that the issue could jeopardise the delivery of vital services to its members.

 

However, in preparing a new funding application, he said club members have been heartened at the ‘strong public support’ that emerged since the issue came to light.

 

“It is our intention to again follow all the EA requirements and guidance in terms of their application funding process,” he added.

 

“Our hope is that we will be able to satisfy these requirements in order that we can provide the much-needed services for local young people, particularly in these times of great need for them to have opportunities to meet, socialise and gain important inter-personal skills during their adolescent years.”

 

Omagh town Sinn Féin councillor, Barry McElduff, said it was important to ensure that the concerns being raised by Omagh Boys and Girls club are addressed as a matter of urgency.

 

“It is vital that the Education Authority work with the club to ensure that the funding concerns are addressed and that this current issue is resolved.”

 

SDLP MLA for West Tyrone, Daniel McCrossan, believes the matter will be resolved satisfactorily.

 

“Following deliberations, I am confident that if the club follow the EA application process that necessary funding will be provided to ensure the club is able to continue the great work they are doing.”