Speaking at the official launch of the Comber Resource Centre TUV Cllr Stephen Cooper expressed his excitement at the journey ahead for the residents of Comber and surrounding areas.
Mr Cooper said:
“I am over the moon with the progress we have made over the past few months for the benefit of the local community. Today we reach our first real objective, that of launching this invaluable outlet for everyone to avail of, here in my home town of Comber.
“For too long this town has slowly drifted under the radar, both in relation to numbers of retail outlets and services to residents.
“I am indebted to the determination of Ruth Magee, who has been a formidable and incessant force in chasing projects and initiatives and delivering on their roll out to this centre.
“I commend her remarkable vision and drive I have seen at first hand over the last eighteen months which has brought us all to where we are today.
“Also, we must not forget the numerous volunteers who do so much for so little; they also deserve our appreciation and gratitude, as without all of them, we would not be standing here today with the array of activities already on offer.
“I am also happy to place on record my appreciation to AND Borough Council for taking the progressive step in appointing Ald Henry and myself as mental health champions to represent and engage on behalf of Council with a wide range of agencies and organisations province wide, in the ongoing challenges facing those with mental health afflictions.
“One of our aims is to work towards the gradual removal of the stigmatisation around mental health, and the numerous initiatives we have already started are the vital first steps in an exciting journey for both anyone affected and for those who were previously unaware of the impact mental illness has on so many in our society.
“On that very note, I am pleased to see so many here from the numerous mental health agencies, and I am looking forward to working together with all of you for the betterment of all the community on these issues.
“Last, but not least, I appeal to the townsfolk of Comber, and surrounding areas of Ballygowan and Killinchy, to come and support us and help us rebuild our town into the vibrant hub we are striving to create.
“I pledged to you at the election I would work for our community, now I need your help and involvement to realise the full potential of what we are bringing to this centre with projects, seminars, courses and numerous forthcoming activities.
“Ladies and gentlemen, let’s build something we can all be proud of.”