A RESIDENTIAL centre for adults with autism in West Cork could act as a blueprint for similar facilities across the country, according to those behind plans for the facility in Dunmanway.

At a meeting in the Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery last Sunday night, attendees were given an update on the planned development where John and Mary McCarthy were publically acknowledged for generously donating lands in Dunmanway to progress the project.

Jim O’Mahony and Anne Sheehan from Kilbrittain, who have been organising annual tractor runs at Christmas to fund the autism unit at the local primary school which have raised thousands of euros down through the years, have spearheaded the project which will now see CoAction West Cork coming on board to deliver this facility.

Chair of CoAction John Nolan said this was a wonderful gesture by John and Mary McCarthy to donate land which will allow them to construct a much-needed residential centre for adults with autism.

‘This was all driven by both Jim and Anne who had the passion to drive this project. Now that we have the land we can now put a proposal to the HSE,’ he said.

Jim O’Mahony said they are determined to get this project to succeed and the idea came from their initial tractor runs, which is now the biggest tractor run in the country.

‘Our committee’s vision was to do something for adults with autism as there is nowhere for them to go. On behalf of the committee I want to thank the McCarthys too for donating land to help us build the residential centre.’

John McCarthy said if he can even help one family then he will regard it as a success and it will be their proudest day when the sod is turned on the site to build the centre.

Jillian Connolly, ceo of CoAction said one of the challenges they face in West Cork is access to appropriate accommodation for adults with autism. ‘To be donated a green field site in Dunmanway that we can build a service we need to build for young adults with autism is not small, it’s beyond significant.’

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan praised Jim and Anne for sticking with their vision and said the donation of land from John and Mary McCarthy is a ‘gamechanger.’

‘This has to stay on a capital plan now to ensure it is delivered within a reasonable time period. All I wish is that adults with autism have a place to live, once their parents pass away.’

Cllr Gillian Coughlan said this will be a ‘flagship’ facility when it is realised.

‘It is exciting and a message of hope that our community is inclusive and I want to salute all of ye.’

Sen Noel O’Donovan said he delighted that the facility will be located in the centre of West Cork in Dunmanway and is looking forward to the sod being turned on the site.

Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins said it has the potential to being a ‘centre of excellence’ and it is vital the project be delivered.

Meanwhile, the annual Kilbrittain Autism Tractor Run takes place in Kilbrittain on Sunday December 28th.