SENIOR Government ministers and civic leaders gathered at Parliament Buildings, Stormont this week for the official launch of a revised ‘Northwest Strategic Growth Plan’ and the signing of a landmark cross-border Health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The high-profile event, held in the Long Gallery, brought together First Minister Michelle O’Neill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, and ministers for the Economy and Health, alongside Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Paul Canning, and the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Grace Uí Niallais.
The revised Strategic Growth Plan sets out an ambitious vision for a connected and competitive Northwest city region, encompassing Derry, Strabane, Letterkenny and the wider Donegal area, with priorities across infrastructure, skills, innovation and health.
Central to the event was the formal signing of a Northwest Health MOU between the Western Health and Social Care Trust and the Health Service Executive, committing both bodies to more coordinated, cross-border service delivery for communities across the region.
Cllr Canning described the occasion as a pivotal moment for Donegal. “This is a significant milestone in the continued strengthening of cross-border cooperation between Donegal, Derry and Strabane,” he said. “The Strategic Growth Plan provides a clear and ambitious roadmap for the region, while the Health MOU acknowledges the practical realities faced by our communities and sets a strong foundation for more integrated service delivery.”
Donegal County Council Chief Executive John McLaughlin said the partnership with Derry City and Strabane District Council remained central to the region’s success. “Through joint planning, aligned investment and a coordinated approach to service delivery, we are demonstrating the value of cross-border collaboration in addressing shared challenges and unlocking new opportunities,” he said.
Further information is available at www.growderrystrabane.com