Funding for sensory gardens

Over €9,000 in funding has been made available to develop sensory gardens in Cavan. The allocation is part of grants for five sensory gardens announced by Minister of State, Anne Rabbitte in the Cavan and Monaghan area to augment services for persons with disabilities.

Welcoming the announcement Fianna Fáil TD Brendan Smith said the funding is being provided to organisations that support children and adults with disabilities.

A total of €27,255 will go towards the development of the five sensory gardens in Cavan and Monaghan.

Deputy Smith said: “Sensory Gardens are popular with the entire community and are recognised as particularly beneficial for children and adults with disabilities. In announcing this grant the Disabilities Minister states there is so much evidence highlighting how sensory supports including sensory gardens improve the quality of life for people with disabilities as well as providing an accessible space for them to enjoy.”

The projects approved are: Enable Ireland, Rathcorrick, Cavan (€3,255), HSE Manderley Lodge, Cavan (€6,000), Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, Castleblayney (€2,000), Camphill Communities of Ireland, Ballybay (€6,000), and Errigal Truagh Day Services (€10,000).

Deputy Smith commended all who put their weight behind the application: “I congratulate the local services in Cavan and Monaghan who submitted successful applications and I wish them every success in developing these gardens,” Deputy Smith concluded.