“It’s absolutely chilling to hear workers on the ground warn that more deaths are likely in the coming days and that should focus minds around the scale of what we are dealing with here'
A Belfast councillor has called for an urgent response following reports of five people dying on the city's streets recently.
The news comes following the closure of a homeless charity in Belfast, The Welcome Organisation, who were targeted in an arson attack. Councillor Doherty has said he is working with the charity to find a new premises. “It’s absolutely chilling to hear workers on the ground warn that more deaths are likely in the coming days and that should focus minds around the scale of what we are dealing with here. Many people in our city are currently in the grip of addiction and we can’t expect charities and volunteers to solve this problem, our health service, with support from the Executive, council and other statutory bodies needs to step in and get this under control.
“Unfortunately it is not only the Welcome Organisation that is struggling at the minute, groups across the North dealing with homelessness are facing budget cuts that will put their very existence at risk. These tragic deaths show the consequences for failing to adequately support people when they are struggling and at the very least should provide a catalyst for a reversal of these cuts from the Department for Communities and the Executive.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Belfast: TUV councillor blames INLA for homeless centre attackRon McDowell condemns the 'gross hypocrisy' of republican paramilitaries due to their drugs record.
Read more »
Belfast Pride: Annual event attracts thousands in BelfastCrowds have taken to the streets of Belfast for the city's annual pride parade.
Read more »
Parents thankful after Belfast Zoo giraffe named in memory of their baby boyThe Belfast Zoo have released the final results of their naming competition for their baby giraffe following a 'landslide victory'
Read more »
Belfast mayor and charity recreate classic Vogue cover for PrideThe team at Show Some Love will lead this year's Belfast Pride parade with Lord Mayor Micky Murray
Read more »
Belfast social pictures as friends toast to the weekend in city centreDid our photographer see you out and about this week?
Read more »
In pictures: Belfast covered in a sea of colour for annual Pride paradeThis year’s theme is Love your Mind
Read more »