Funding for community residence in Portlaoise for people with intellectual disabilities approved

Funding for the design and purchase of a community residence in Portlaoise for people with intellectual disabilities has been approved by the Government.

The project, which is currently at detailed design stage, has been given the green light following an announcement by Minister of State for Disabilities, Anne Rabbitte of €23m in funding nationally for disability capital projects in 2024.

One Laois project that will progress this year is the assessment, design and purchase of a community residence for four people with intellectual disabilities in the Summerhill area of Portlaoise.

This is the first ever Disability Strategic Capital Plan to be developed and children’s services, day services and respite facilities across the country will receive investment.

Minister Rabbitte said: “Today is an important milestone in the Government’s commitment to both increase investment in disability capital projects and also the development of the HSE’s first ever disability specific Capital Strategy.

The significant allocation of €23m includes the provision of housing for people moving on from congregated settings, the build and refurbishment of facilities for Children’s Services, Day Services and Respite facilities.

"The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has set ambitious targets for the expansion of residential services, day services, children’s services and respite facilities under the Action Plan, which require appropriate strategic capital investment to provide the necessary infrastructure."

Sean Fleming TD, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs has welcomed this announcement.

"This funding will help to further extend community-based living arrangements for people with disabilities in Laois," he said.

"This will mean that Laois people with disabilities can live in suitable housing and live within the County, close to family, friends, local community and amenities.

It is important that we continue to invest in services and the provision of housing for people with disabilities in Laois," the TD finished.