€35K for disability services in Cavan and Monaghan

Four services in counties Cavan and Monaghan are set to benefit from a total of €35,000 under the Strengthening Disability Services Fund.

The Minister of State with responsibility for Disability Services at the Department of Health, Anne Rabbitte, has announced the first tranche of successful applications to the €20 million fund.

Drumlin House in Cootehill is to receive €14,725; while Steadfast House CLG has been allocated €14,600. Errigal Truagh is to receive €3,500 for music therapy and staff development and the Cairde Activation Centre gets €2,300 for staff training and development.

Announced as part of Budget 2021, the one-off grants are being provided to reform disability services, build the capacity of disability organisations and to improve the quality of life of those who rely on these services.

Welcoming the local allocations, Minister Heather Humphreys said: “Disability services in both Cavan and Monaghan have continued to operate during the current Level Five restrictions, and this is credit to the staff and service providers.

"We saw the impact the closure of Day Services had last year but we’ve collectively worked together to keep them open, ensuring support for service users and their families, while all the while operating safely within public health guidance. This funding will help improve local services being offered during these difficult times."

Meanwhile, Minister Rabbitte commented: “In this first cycle of funding, projects approved include improvements to premises such as additional recreational spaces, therapeutic spaces and sensory gardens, as well as the purchase of assistive technologies, tablet devices and other computers for service users, and the provision of broadband to disability premises. Grants have also been provided for building upgrades and refurbishments, updated fire safety measures and much needed upgrades to IT systems and staff training."

The Strengthening Disability Services Fund is on top of the additional €100 million delivered in Budget 2021. Further grants are being assessed and will be announced later in the month.

Fianna Fáil Senator Robbie Gallagher has also welcomed the allocations and commended those involved in the successful allocations.

"These grants are provided to reform disability services, build the capacity of disability organisations and to improve the quality of life of those who rely on these services. The funding will make a positive difference in the lives of the people and communities in Cavan and Monaghan who rely on these services,” he said.