Commissioner for Victims and Survivors, Joe McVey, was pleased to meet with a group of residents from the Fountain area of Derry/Londonderry earlier this month.

The invitation followed a discussion at the Exodus conference, held in the Guildhall on 4 August. The conference and accompanying report highlighted the experiences of the thousands of people displaced in the city during the Troubles/conflict and the importance of ensuring their stories are recognised and acknowledged.

Residents spoke powerfully about the impact of ongoing attacks on their daily lives. They described feeling isolated and vulnerable and believe the attacks are sectarian in nature. They also raised concerns about what they perceive as a lack of support and understanding from the PSNI, political representatives and some community leaders.

Residents are keen to engage constructively with statutory agencies and community partners to help end these attacks, so they can live safely, raise their families, and feel secure in their own community.

Brian Dougherty, Director of New Gate Arts, said:

“I was keen to facilitate the meeting and support residents to share their concerns directly with the Commissioner for Victims and Survivors.

“We hope this can be the beginning of a series of meetings with statutory agencies and community partners, focused on addressing residents’ concerns and bringing an end to the ongoing attacks affecting the Fountain area.”

Follow the link to the view the full Exodus report : Exodus-Report-August-2026.pdf

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