Martin McGuinness has paid tribute to the people of Derry for the welcome afforded to the city’s newly arrived Syrian refugees.
He was speaking at an event held as part of the process of welcoming the refugees.
Around 50 refugees from the Syrian civil war recently arrived in the city where they will live for the next couple of years at least.
A family gathering event was held at Pilot’s Row Community Centre yesterday afternoon.
It was organised by the North West Migrants Forum to help the Syrian families in whatever they can.
Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness and Junior Minister, Megan Fearon also took part in the event.
Sinn Fein Foyle MLA Mr McGuinness said: “It was an honour to meet with the refugee families and wider local community today.
“I am proud the north of Ireland and in this instance the north west has risen to the humanitarian challenge of welcoming people to live among us when they were in need of sanctuary.
"The families only arrived in Derry last month so these last few weeks have been a huge transition for them on top of what has been an extremely traumatic period.
“I pay tribute to the people of Derry and the wider North West who I am sure will continue to show care and compassion and help these people as they continue to rebuild their lives."
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