Omagh Boys and Girls Club in Tyrone faces closure after 74 years of operation. The club, established in 1952 and located at the Station Centre since 2000, received notice that its funding from the Department of Education ends on June 30, 2026. No funding is guaranteed beyond that date.

A senior Department of Education representative informed Stormont’s Education Committee that funding for over 100 youth groups is secure only through the first financial quarter of 2026-27. The representative stated that funds for youth services remain limited.

Paddy McMahon, secretary of Omagh Boys and Girls Club, described the situation as worrying. He noted challenges in long-term planning and potential job losses for youth workers if support ends.

McMahon highlighted that the Education Authority Youth Service had planned a three-year funding renewal but restricted it to three months due to government budget pressures.

The club offers young people a space to connect, engage in sports, and build skills including leadership, confidence, and awareness of risks from drugs and alcohol. Participants develop abilities in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication, which aid job and university applications.

Other Tyrone youth groups with uncertain funding include The Bytes Project in Dunnamanagh, Dungannon Youth Resource Centre, and Galbally Youth Club.

McMahon expressed hope that the government recognizes the value of youth clubs and provides ongoing support.