Funds boost for film project helping youngsters steer clear of paramilitaries

A film project aimed at diverting young people in Derry from paramilitaries has been awarded £11,750 (€13,808), the North’s justice minister has said.

The Playhouse theatre's Street Talk scheme uses the arts to prevent youths from becoming involved in anti-social behaviour.

The funding comes from assets seized from criminals.

Minister Claire Sugden said: "This tranche of funding represents more money which has been taken out of the hands of criminals and returned to the community.

"It will make a real difference in supporting those who want to do good for the community instead of inflicting harm and fear."

The Men's Action Network, which received funding of £18,080 (€21,247), will work with offenders from the age of 16 who are preparing for release from prison. The Breaking the Cycle programme is designed to challenge repeat offending.

Twenty-four other projects across Northern Ireland have also benefited with a total allocation this year of more than £453,000 (€532,354).