Community crèche opens at O’Raghallaigh Park
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Ribbon cutting at the new community creche at O’Raghallaigh Park, Cavan Town.Image 2 of 4
Staff at CCLD, Daniel Downey, Lorraine McTeigue, Helen O’Reilly, and Terry Hyland CEO.Image 3 of 4
Shane McHugh, Elaine Gaffney, Annette Coyle, Eimear Tobin, Karen Morton, Monica Sorohan, Diane Crowe, Sadhbh Brady, Greg Brennan, and Tommy Prior.Image 4 of 4
Lorna Dunne, Finance Manager at Cavan Credit Union, Manager Eimear Tobin, and General Manager at Krafty Kids Annette Coyle.A once-disused building in the heart of O’Raghallaigh Park, Cavan Town, has been given a new lease of life as a vibrant community crèche, officially opened last Friday.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the culmination of almost two years of sustained effort, co-operation, and dedication involving Cavan County Local Development (CCLD), Cavan County Council, and the local community.
Locals had asked for two things - affordable childcare and a shared space for community gatherings.
Thanks to the combined efforts of multiple agencies and community partners, those aspirations have become a reality.
The building is being leased to CCLD by Cavan County Council for a nominal fee of €50 per year over seven years; while Krafty Kids, the county’s largest community childcare provider, will operate the new full-day, not-for-profit childcare service.
Milestone
Annette Coyle, General Manager of Krafty Kids, described the opening as a proud and emotional milestone.
She acknowledged the extensive planning and co-operation required to bring this project to fruition, and praised the support of CCLD, the council, and the First 5 Committee, who stepped in after the former crèche closed and the building fell into disrepair.
Cathaoirleach John Paul Feeley, who performed the official opening, praised the project as a shining example of teamwork and community spirit.
Council Chief Executive Eoin Doyle echoed these sentiments, highlighting the successful collaboration between CCLD and the local authority in delivering impactful community projects.
CCLD CEO Terry Hyland said the crèche reflects a deep commitment to enhancing family life in the O’Raghallaigh Park area.
He credited Lorraine McTeigue, Community Development Officer, for her role, as well as Krafty Kids and local groups to bring the shared vision to life.
A Community Open Morning and street party added a celebratory air to proceedings.
Ms Coyle extended thanks to all involved, including Cavan Credit Union for sponsoring the purchase of cots, and warmly acknowledged the residents’ support: “When people come together with a shared purpose, real progress is possible.”