McGuinness and Fearon meet Syrian refugees living in North West

The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness and Junior Minister, Megan Fearon today visited Syrian refugees at a family gathering event at Pilot’s Row Youth and Community Centre in Derry.

The deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Junior Minister Megan Fearon speaking to Mustafa Algadoaa, his wife Huda Khallo and daughter Yara (2) at a welcome reception in Derry.

Hosted by the North West Migrants Forum, the event brought together Syrian refugee families,local community groups, and the migrant community living the Derry City and Strabane district council area.

The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness said: “It was an honour to meet with the refugee families and wider local community today. I am proud the north of Ireland and in this instance the north west has risen to the humanitarian challenge of welcoming people to live among us when they were in need of sanctuary.

"The families only arrived in Derry last month so these last few weeks have been a huge transition for them on top of what has been an extremely traumatic period. I pay tribute to the people of Derry and the wider North West who I am sure will continue to show care and compassion and help these people as they continue to rebuild their lives."

Junior Minister, Megan Fearon said: "Events like this are so important in welcoming the families and helping them to become part of the local community.  Today provides a valuable network for them to meet up again, share their experiences and make new friends.  It also gives them the opportunity to meet with the local community and political leaders.

“I was particularly humbled to hear from Hasina Mohamed who spoke about life in Derry one month on and it's evident support like today is vital for those starting their new lives here.  

" I commend the many organisations involved in the humanitarian support effort and appeal to the wider community to continue to make these families feel welcome and valued.”

Notes to editors: 

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