News that local hospices are to receive almost £7m in aid to help during the COVID-19 crisis has been welcomed.

Sinn Féin MLA JohnO’Dowd said: “I welcome the announcement by Finance Minister Conor Murphy that almost £7m will be distributed to local Hospices.

“Hospices and their staff are an invaluable asset to our society. The staff provide high quality and compassionate care to those that are in need, and in particular those that are seriously ill.

“Many Hospices rely on fundraising that is carried out by remarkable volunteers and community organisations who work tirelessly throughout the year.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 11th September 2019 - Picture Matt Mackey / Press Eye.

Sinn Fein's annual 'Away Day' meeting will take place in the Carrickdale Hotel, Co. Louth on Wednesday 11th September.

The meeting is attended by elected representatives from across the island and will address the issues of Brexit, Irish Unity, Sinn Fein's alternative budget and Dail priorities.
John O'Dowd — Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 11th September 2019 - Picture Matt Mackey / Press Eye. Sinn Fein's annual 'Away Day' meeting will take place in the Carrickdale Hotel, Co. Louth on Wednesday 11th September. The meeting is attended by elected representatives from across the island and will address the issues of Brexit, Irish Unity, Sinn Fein's alternative budget and Dail priorities. John O'Dowd | Matt Mackey/Presseye.com

placeholder image — Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 11th September 2019 - Picture Matt Mackey / Press Eye. Sinn Fein's annual 'Away Day' meeting will take place in the Carrickdale Hotel, Co. Louth on Wednesday 11th September. The meeting is attended by elected representatives from across the island and will address the issues of Brexit, Irish Unity, Sinn Fein's alternative budget and Dail priorities. John O'Dowd | Matt Mackey/Presseye.com

“Due to the ongoing public health emergency, the capacity to fundraise by many Hospices has been severely limited and has caused significant financial stress and concern.

“I believe that this financial injection will go some way in alleviating many of their financial concerns. I want to thank the staff at hospices and all those that are involved I fund raising for their work”