Councillor Haughey said, “There is no doubt that access to high-quality play facilities benefits children’s learning and development – building agility and determination, improving their problem solving skills, and bettering their overall health and wellbeing.
“It is scandalous that up until now there has been absolutely no provision for play in Poyntzpass or Clady. I believe that is a real injustice for the children and young people living in those areas.
“I have requested that Armagh Council reviews its play strategy with the aim to deliver play facilities in areas of identified need.
“I am also working with the community in Clady to secure access to land from Housing Executive and to seek out funding for their Play Proposal.
“In Poyntzpass, I was delighted to recently assist the local community group to secure the land for the ball alley, which will undoubtedly provide an excellent recreational facility for children, young people and indeed adults. However this is all dependent on funding and I will continue to support the Poyntzpass community group in seeking out monies.
“In addition to this worthy project, there is still a need for play facilities for the children of Poyntzpass. This is an issue which continues to be raised with me and I strongly believe that the council needs to deliver on its promise to provide a play facility here.
“The problem is the lack of affordable land in the area for a project of this nature. I have asked the council to investigate a number of land options over the years but none of those options have proved to be viable.
“I now urge anyone within Poyntzpass who can identify land for a play area in Poyntzpass to come forward to be part of a project which will change the lives of young people in the area.”