Today (4/08/10), Pat Carey T.D., Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs approved funding of up to €300,000 to support the development of a Resource & Outreach Centre in Belmullet, Co. Mayo by the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA).

The plans for the new state-of-the-art facilities are currently subject to planning permission and, if approved, the building project will commence in early-autumn.  The new facility will replace the current prefabs which house the services that cover the broad Erris region.  It will respond to the dual challenge of providing appropriate accommodation for health/disability activities, while importantly, also developing a centre that will promote local community activities.

Minister Carey’s support for the project under the CLÁR Programme will add to that of the HSE, the IWA and philanthropic funders.

Speaking today, Minister Carey said:

“I am delighted my Department is able to support this important development. Not only is it about the delivery of important health and disability facilities for the Erris region, but I am also conscious in approving the investment, that it will contribute to the work being done by the North West Mayo Community Forum on the social and economic development of the area.  Last October we announced a series of community improvement projects and, at the time, we said that we would continue to upgrade the social and physical infrastructure of the region.  I know this IWA facility will do just that for the Erris region and will be of great benefit for the local community”.

The Regional Director of the Irish Wheelchair Association, Mr. Tony Cunningham, said:” this is a great day for all those who use the services we offer at Belmullet and also for the broader community in Erris, for whom the planned new Resource & Outreach Centre will be a first class community facility.  I am delighted that Minister Carey has approved this substantial funding and it means we should soon enjoy a Centre that will be to the highest international standards and will allow us to deliver a comprehensive schedule of person-centred programmes and services”.