Enable Ireland turns sod on Cork adult services hub

An official sod turning event for Enable Ireland’s newest adult services hub in Cork took place this week.

The new €2m hub, based at Midleton, will be a specialised, community-based day centre for individuals with physical, sensory, or intellectual disabilities and will focus on promoting independence, community inclusion, and personal goal achievements.

The event, which took place on Wednesday, was attended by representatives of the charity, Jack McFarlane, Gillian Darrer and Anne Hegarty.

The new development, at Mill View on the Cork Road, will include the modernisation of the existing building and the addition of purpose-built accessible features, including two fully adapted personal care rooms, a sensory room, therapy room, computer room, adapted kitchen and an outdoor area.

Once completed, the building will have capacity for up to 25 adults from the North and East Cork.

Honoured

Speaking on the day of the event, Mr McFarlane said on behalf of those who will be attending the hub in Midleton, he was “honoured to turn the sod on the development”.

“I really enjoy day services at Enable Ireland’s hub at Ballintemple, but it is a bit of a trek for those of us living in the East Cork area.”

Ms Darrer, who is Enable Ireland’s South and West head of services, said a development of this kind is “much needed” in Midleton.

“Receiving day supports in local towns is such an important part of ensuring that each and every adult using our services has the chance to participate in the life of their local community,” said Ms Darrer.

“This new development represents an exciting opportunity for the adults in Enable Ireland to benefit from being part of the welcoming and vibrant community of Midleton.”

The total project cost is just over €2m, with a funding shortfall of €330,000 remaining.

The charity is now appealing to companies to nominate Enable Ireland as its charity partner or to consider this project for fundraising events or campaigns.