Statement by Limavady TUV councillor Boyd Douglas:
“Having lobbied for a reversal of the decision to close Thackeray Place I welcome the Minister’s eve of election U-turn.
“However, one does have to ask why the elderly residents of Thackeray Place were put through such concern about their future. For months some of the most vulnerable in our society have worried about their future. Welcome as the decision is, therefore, I deeply regret the uncertainty which elderly ladies and gentlemen have had to endure.
“It also has to be said that this only amounts to a stay of execution for Thackeray Place and other homes unless the ban on admissions is lifted. The Minister has said nothing to suggest that this policy is being reversed.”