Cash boost and Ministerial visit for Causeway

Minister for Social Development, Alex Attwood visited Causeway CAB last week just as the bureau learned that they have received an increase in funding of almost £10,000 from Coleraine Borough Council.

Manager of Causeway CAB, Angela Welch said: “It will fill the £10,000 shortfall in money which still remained after council funding. The money secures jobs and we could have been facing threats to staff posts”.  The bureau will also be able to increase opening hours in the neighbouring Ballymoney outreach facility.

Minister Attwood, who has continually championed funding for advice giving, stated that ‘It’s not a huge amount but it’s enough to make a difference and to keep a service alive and going…I have said I will protect funding for advice. That’s why I am here today to confirm the great work people are doing in the community and advice-giving sector’.

Pictured at the visit to Causeway CAB are from left to right (back row): Diana Johnston, Cheryl Connor, Jenni Archer, Roisin Loftus, Alderman Maura Hickey, Mandy Deans and Janet Reid. (Front Row): Minister for Social Development, Alex Attwood, Angela Welch, Manager, Causeway CAB and John Dallat MLA. (Photo courtesy of Coleraine Chronicle)

The Minister spoke to all the staff in Causeway CAB and discussed the casework being dealt with, including the number of repossessions and high unemployment levels in the area. John Dallat MLA who also attended the visit recognised the work of CAB and stated: "Today CAB is facing unprecedented pressure to meet the demands of people who through no fault of their own are facing money problems which are a direct result of the dreadful state of the economy."