Derry to hold special council meeting to discuss impact of the delays in support payments

Derry Sinn Féin Councillor Christopher Jackson has called for a special council meeting to discuss the rising cost of living and the impact of the delays in support payments.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, which will take place on Friday, Cllr Jackson said: "As the days get colder, and prices continue to rise, people across the city and district are suffering. 

"As Council, we are opening a hardship fund to try and support people where we can but we are limited in how much support we can provide. 

"It is a disgrace that the DUP refusing to form an Executive has meant that the £600 payments that are due to go to every household will now be delayed until at least January. 

"Gordon Lyons, when he was the DUP Economy Minister, promised this support would be rolled out by November, and it hasn't happened."

He concluded: "People will have been relying on this support as we move into December, as it was promised, and many will face a hard, cold winter with limited support. 

"The Assembly has been recalled on Wednesday to discuss this issue, and our Council will be meeting on Friday.

"I hope the DUP make the right decision, and form an Executive so support can be given to people now."