Councillors at Derry/Strabane council's full meeting on March 30 addressed changes to youth services funding. The Education Authority will end ring-fencing of these funds from June, as announced in March.

Sinn Féin councillor Emma McGinley said local youth workers expressed concern over the funding shift. She noted youth workers support young people through early intervention efforts.

People Before Profit councillor Shaun Harkin proposed the council contact Education Minister Paul Givan to prevent cuts. He stated youth services must now compete with schools for funding.

Harkin referenced a recent decision to reverse cancellation of summer schemes for children with special needs, following public pressure. He called for opposition to the youth services funding change and for Stormont to ensure continued funding.

SDLP councillor Brian Tierney said the cuts would affect communities and young people. McGinley amended the motion to include contact with the Education Authority. She noted the minister values youth workers but described the budget decision as an EA operational choice.

McGinley said pressure is needed on both the minister and the EA to prioritise youth services.