Derry City and Strabane District Council backs call for student hardship fund

Sinn Féin Councillor Aileen Mellon said: “Many of our students throughout the North have been facing into severe hardship as a result of COVID-19.

“Students cannot be left behind and where the Executive can, they should put all measures in place to help."

On Thursday members of DC&SDC backed a motion by Colr. Mellon that called for monies to be made available.

“I am happy that members have agreed to join our call for the Minister for Economy to introduce a student hardship fund.

“Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has already included students among those eligible to apply for the discretionary hardship fund.

“We will continue to lobby and fight for all those who are suffering as a result of COVID-19," said Colr. Mellon.

She said her constituency office has been inundated with requests for help from local students.

“In the city we have also been assisting many students on an individual basis dealing directly with their landlords, with limited success. But if any student or their family would like any help or advice, they should get in touch with me or their local representative as soon as possible.”