HSE secure new disability day activation site

The HSE has struck a deal for the delivery of a new day services centre for young adults with additional needs in Cavan Town, the Celt can reveal.

The facility, to be located outside Cavan Town, will replace the existing Clogher House at Rathcorrick, which was scheduled for decommissioning as far back as 2018.

This newspaper understands that an agreement has now been reached with two local developers who will press ahead with providing the new disability unit on an extended lease basis.

The project, the Celt understands, is being worked on as a matter of “priority”, and if planning is secured in the coming months, construction could begin before year end.

There have been continued concerns over the suitability of Clogher House for use as a day activation facility, as well as over future capacity with the number of soon-to-be young adults with severe/profound disabilities increasing in the coming five years.

In May Minister for Disabilities Anne Rabbitte announced that substantial investment of over €12 million had been secured for the provision of two new day service centres - one to replace Clogher House, and the other in place of Drumlin House in Cootehill.

Funding of €7.5 million was ring-fenced for Drumlin House where, like Clogher House, concerns were raised over capacity.

The council recently granted planning for a major extension to Drumlin House, subject to eight conditions.

Drumlin House Day Services, which operates the facility, have since submitted a proposal via HSE Estates North East detailing future requirements.

HSE Estates meanwhile is working on establishing a new five bedroom respite service in Monaghan to catering specifically for children.

The team is also working on replacing the existing day service unit on the St Davnet’s campus, with discussions taking place with Monaghan County Council to identify a suitable site.

Just over €3 million has been allocated to the Monaghan respite project and, while this is being built, additional funding has been sanctioned for an interim service set to open by October 1.

Under the proposed plans, Cootehill's Annalee View centre, which currently provides children's respite every second week, will become an adult-only facility.

Over the last six years the HSE has opened three community-based homes across Cavan and Monaghan.

In total there are now 13 designated residential disability centres across the two counties, which are all registered with Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA).

The HSE has been contacted for comment.