SINN Féin MEP Martina Anderson has said those who work with adults with learning disabilities are concerned about what will replace the European Social Fund post-Brexit.
Martina Anderson said: “I met yesterday with staff and service users from Mencap in Belfast to discuss their concerns about how Brexit will impact the work they are engaged in.
“I saw at first hand the excellent work carried out by Mencap and the positive difference it makes to the lives of so many adults with learning disabilities here in the north.
“At present, the work they do is supported by the European Social Fund but with Britain intent on dragging the north out of the EU against our democratically expressed will, this funding will come to an end post-Brexit.
“After the current funding finishes the British government has indicated that it will replace it with a Shared Prosperity Fund but organisations like Mencap have not had any clarity around this proposed fund or what it will entail.
“This is yet another example of how Brexit will hit those most in need in our society in the north and could lead to greater inequality for those with learning disabilities, particularly when it comes to entering employment.
“All of this highlights the need for rights protections to be built into the backstop so that the rights of vulnerable people can be safeguarded and for special status for the north within the EU so vital work like this can continue to be funded,” added the MEP.
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