Derry MLA to present Tamzin White’s petition for Detox Centre to Health Minister Robin Swann

As of this afternoon over 8,300 people have signed the Detox Centre for Derry petition set up by Tamzin White just weeks ago, and today is the last day people can sign it (see link below).

Tamzin had asked the Health Minister to meet with her to hear her family’s story but Mr Swann said this wasn’t possible at present and has referred Tamzin to the chief executive of the Western Trust who it is understood is to meet with her.

Tamzin has revived the long-standing detox centre campaign for Derry after she and her younger siblings lost their mother Louise O’Doherty White after a battle with addiction. Louise was just 40 years old.

Tamzin has also lost several other relatives after they too battled with addiction and mental health issues.

Sinn Féin MLA Ms. Mullan described Tamzin as an “amazing young woman” and vowed to hand over the petition on Monday.

Speaking after meeting with Tamzin White, the Foyle MLA said: “I want to commend Tamzin for her courage and bravery and her inspiring campaign for detox services and increased support for people battling addiction.

“Her petition has now been signed by over 8,000 people from across the city and on Monday I will present it to Health Minister Robin Swann.

“There is a clear need for more investment in addiction services in the city to support the amazing work already being carried out by the Northlands Centre.

“Substance addiction is a serious problem in the north west and we must ensure that every avenue is explored to deliver the best possible service for those in need.”

To add your name to the petition go to: www.change.org/p/government-detoxcentreforderryREAD MORE: www.derryjournal.com/health/i-believe-my-mammy-would-be-alive-if-derry-had-detox-centre-3117025