A new state-of-the-art resource and outreach centre for the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA ), located in Logmore, Belmullet, is on target and is expected to be completed within seven months. Details of the development, catering for 124 people with limited mobility, were announced this week at the site of the new centre by Dara Calleary, Minister for Labour Affairs and Public Service Transformation.
The first resource and outreach service set up by IWA in 1996, operated from rented premises in Belmullet. The new centre, according to IWA regional director Tony Cunningham, “means that more people with limited mobility can now be catered for throughout the Erris region. IWA will provide essential services covering accessible transport, sports, training, education and, most importantly, social outings for members.
“There is no other service provider in Erris for people with physical disabilities,” Mr Cunningham added. “It is vital that IWA provide a long-term commitment to its members in a suitable purpose built centre. Our work has gone from strength to strength over the years with support from the local people of Erris who fundraise for our services. I am delighted that we will soon have a top class facility for our members, staff, and volunteers to enjoy.”
Funding was also acknowledged from HSE West, Fionntar Chomhraic Teo, Shell E & P Ireland, the National Lottery, Department of Health & Children, IWA fundraising and most recently, the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs, Pat Carey, pledged €300,000 of Clár Programme funding towards the development.
