To ask the Minister for Social Development what communication his Department has had with Neighbourhood Renewal Projects in East Londonderry regarding departmental funding in the immediate to short term future.

The project promoters of all currently funded Neighbourhood Renewal projects were written to in June 2014 confirming that they will continue to receive Neighbourhood Renewal funding, in line with their Contracts for Funding, up to 31 March 2015. Project promoters were also advised that from 1April 2015, under the Reform of Local Government, the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council will be responsible for urban regeneration and community development and will therefore take all decisions regarding funding from this date. This is dependent on the Executive agreeing to the immediate introduction of the Regeneration and Housing Bill and the legislation being in place by 31 March 2015.

Officials in my Department are assisting the shadow Council regarding its plans for regeneration and community development from 1 April 2015.