SDLP Communities Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has written to several Ministers including Health Minister Robin Swann seeking urgent clarity on revelations revealed today on the Stephen Nolan Show, Thursday, January 6, regarding an investigation into charity Extern NI and the suspension of funding.
The Nolan Show on BBC Radio Foyle revealed this morning that Government payments to a charity have been suspended over financial “irregularities”, according to a letter sent by the Department of Health.
The programme revealed the Department for the Economy is said to be investigating Extern NI.
The investigation reportedly relates to “serious irregularities” in financial and performance data provided by Extern NI in relation to a particular project.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Following reports of an investigation launched by the Department of Economy into charity Extern NI, I have written to all government Ministers whose departments provide funding to the organisation calling for urgent clarification.
“Clarity is needed on what implications this will have, if any, on the charity’s delivery of vital services, their clients and their staff.
“I have also sought assurances from the Health Minister that there will not be any impact on the operation of Derry’s Community Crisis Intervention Service (CCIS).
“I recognise that checks and balances must be in place where public money is concerned however, at a time when demand for the support services provided by Extern has never been greater, it is important that any investigation proceeds with people’s best interests at heart.”
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