Mayor hears from residents impacted by recent violence.
19 June 2025
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh visited the House in the Wells and Alexander House to speak directly with residents and staff directly affected by the recent incidents of violence in and around their local community over past number of nights. Speaking following the meeting Mayor McHugh said: “I want to thank everyone who took the time to share their experiences with me. Hearing first-hand accounts of how this violence has impacted not only their sense of safety but also their emotional and mental wellbeing was deeply moving. These are homes to some of our most vulnerable resident, the people who deserve peace, dignity, and security. It is totally unacceptable that anyone should feel unsafe in their own home.
“I am calling on those involved in these acts to reflect on the consequences of their actions, and the impact it has on the wider community. The distress caused to elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and the dedicated staff who care for them cannot be overstated. It is important that we continue to stand together as a community to speak out against violence and support those who need protection and assistance.”
Mayor McHugh said he and his party colleagues are working closely with local agencies, the PSNI, and support services to ensure support is available to those who need it.
He said everyone deserves to live in a safe and respectful environment, and he is committed to doing all he can to restore that sense of security in the local community.
Mayor McHugh concluded that the acts of violence will not distract from the very positive work that is going on within communities in the city.