Addiction services hub opens in East Cork

Cork Fine Gael Minister Jerry Buttimer has said the brand new Coolmine and Cork Kerry Community Healthcare (CKCH) East Cork hub will prove transformative for many people on their pathway to recovery from addiction.

CKCH and Coolmine Therapeutic Community, Ireland’s national drug and alcohol treatment service, in collaboration with the Southern Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force, officially opened a brand new East Cork hub in Midleton on Friday.

The new East Cork hub strengthens the region’s mission to provide compassionate and community based support for individuals on their road to recovery from addiction.

Speaking to The Echo, Deputy Buttimer, minister of state for charities, gaeltacht and the islands and rural transport said on the new Coolmine East Cork hub:

“It’s a fantastic facility and it is a partnership which can show how you can engage with different sections of the HSE, Coolmine, and the Department of Community Affairs,” Mr Buttimer said.

“The importance of the space here, it is a safe space and it is about working with people to ensure community based recovery services are fostering inclusion and are fostering recovery.

“For me as the new minister, it is about a commitment to strengthening community but also ensuring community led addiction services are here at the heart of our community. So that people that are engaging with the services here are given the best of everything.

Also speaking to The Echo, Social Democrats TD for Cork East Liam Quaide said the new Coolmine East Cork hub will prove to be of significant benefit.

“I’m delighted to attend this launch today. The Coolmine East Cork hub will transform the lives of many people who have been struggling with addiction.

“Huge credit is due to the HSE’s Social Inclusion team and Coolmine itself for forging this partnership and for providing the community with such an impressive service and attractive premises.”

Sarah Gallagher, deputy regional manager, Coolmine Therapeutic Community South-West, said:

“We’re delighted to provide a modern, safe, and nurturing environment where people can access life changing support and build brighter, healthier futures for themselves and their loved ones.”

David Lane, general manager social inclusion, Cork Kerry Community Healthcare and HSE drug and alcohol services coordinator, added: “This new facility in Midleton is more than just a building, it’s a lifeline for countless families in the area.”