MEP host faith groups seminar in Coleraine

MEP Diane Dodds hosted a seminar in The Ulster Scots Resource Centre, Coleraine to highlight funding opportunities available for local churches from the EU and also detail some of the work currently underway in the European Parliament on freedom of religion.
VISIT. MEP Diane Dodds, who visited the Ulster/Scots premises on Friday morning, pictured along with MLA Mervyn Storey, MLA Adrian McQuillan, Cllr George Duddy, Cllr Mark Fielding, Cllr Mark Duddy and Alderman Jim McClure.CR11-505SC.VISIT. MEP Diane Dodds, who visited the Ulster/Scots premises on Friday morning, pictured along with MLA Mervyn Storey, MLA Adrian McQuillan, Cllr George Duddy, Cllr Mark Fielding, Cllr Mark Duddy and Alderman Jim McClure.CR11-505SC.
VISIT. MEP Diane Dodds, who visited the Ulster/Scots premises on Friday morning, pictured along with MLA Mervyn Storey, MLA Adrian McQuillan, Cllr George Duddy, Cllr Mark Fielding, Cllr Mark Duddy and Alderman Jim McClure.CR11-505SC.

Diane Dodds said: “Churches and faith-based organisations continue to play an enormously positive role within Northern Ireland.

“However, in a society that has become increasingly secular in outlook, many of these groups are of the belief that nothing is available for them. Others believe that their faith prevents them from applying from certain sources of support, most notably Lottery Funding.

“My new publication highlights that such thinking is flawed.

“It presents potential applicants with various EU funds amongst over 30 sources of funding. These streams offer assistance with projects for buildings, refurbishments, equipment, core costs, youth work and Christian education, whilst prioritising the most vulnerable groups in our society.

“These funds from the EU also recognises the international dimension of the work carried by churches and faith-based organisations in Northern Ireland that advances the Christian faith through mission, health and welfare, education, training and relief.”

Mrs Dodds updated attendees on the role the European Parliament can play in defending freedom of religious expression, addressing the persecution of Christians across the world and also the need to be a strong voice for the unborn child in the European institutions.

Information on Signposts To Funding For Churches And Faith-Based Organisations Booklet is available at www.dianedodds.co.uk or by calling the DUP European Office on 028 92667733.