It was described as a ‘day of celebration’ as Minister of State for Disability, Finian McGrath, cut the ribbon to officially open CoAction’s new €2.1m Children’s and Adults’ Service Centre in Clonakilty on Wednesday.
IT was described as a ‘day of celebration’ as cut the ribbon to officially open CoAction’s new €2.1m Children’s and Adults’ Service Centre in Clonakilty on Wednesday last.
Speaking on behalf of the local branch of CoAction, Kevin Hodnett said it was important that the people who were at the official launch are the people who use the building.
‘This building is a testament to the people of Clonakilty from individuals to organisations who showed their can-do attitude and who fundraised tirelessly for it,’ said Kevin. ‘People had a vision and wanted to put up this building and today is a day to celebrate this achievement. It was your vision and your dream that made this possible.’
The new development will provide custom-built accommodation for 190 children and 22 adults in the Clonakilty area, with the children’s service located on the ground floor and the adult services on the upper ground floor.
A video presentation by the people that use CoAction was also played, much to the delight of the large audience who attended the launch.
Minister McGrath said CoAction was a leading example of providing pathways for services for people with complex needs. ‘This new facility is putting the individual at the centre of everything we do,’ said Minister McGrath. Reggie Chambers, chairperson of CoAction West Cork thanked all those who helped raise most of the €2.1m needed and also thanked Cork County Council who donated the site for the building.
‘I would also like to thank our chief executive Maurice Walsh who is retiring in September and he has been inspirational in overseeing the development and we thank you for your guidance.’
• See also page 30
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