New fundraising push for Derry ‘detox’ centre

A new fundraising campaign has been been launched in Derry in a bid to open a drugs and alcohol ‘detox’ centre in the city.

Many people have called recently for the creation of such a centre in response to the number of local people suffering from addiction.

A number of people have got together to discuss the plans and put together a fundraising programme in a bid to make the centre a reality.

Dan McLaughlin, one of the people involved in the new initiative, said it was vital issue for the local area.

“This is a problem which affects so many people and so many families,” he said.

“We have all heard the talk recently about the need for a detox centre in Derry, but we feel that it is time to take the issue on.

“That’s why we have launched the fundraising initiative.

“It is a chance for people to come together and make this a reality.

“We have heard all the talk from politicians, but this is a chance for everyone to have their say.

“This needs to be a detox centre by the people for the people.”

The first fundraising event will be a variety concert at The Playhouse in Derry on June 24 and 25.

Mr McLaughlin said a further meeting would be held shortly to form a committee to oversee the fundraising programme.

He urged local people to get involved in the programme.

“We want to give people who have been affected by addiction to get involved,” he said.

“It’s also important that this is seen as a cross-community and cross-border issue.

“Addiction knows no borders, so we all have to work together to tackle this problem.”

Photo shows the group pictured at a meeting of concerned members of the community, looking to form a fundraising committee for a purpose built detox centre. Included, from left, are Charlie McLaughlin, Helen Hannigan, Bernie McLaughlin, Charlie O'Neill, Felicity McCall and Dan McLaughlin. (Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)