New resource centre for deaf and hard of hearing people opens in Louth

A new resource centre for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people was officially opened in Dundalk yesterday. 

The official opening of Chime’s new centre at 66/67 Park Street was attended by Minister of State at the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, Hildegarde Naughton.

It is one of 12 locations nationally which are centres for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people, offering a broad range of assistance, including hearing aid and other tech services, as well as one-to-one and group support.

Minister Naughton praised Chime for its caring support of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, and for the new services on offer for people in Louth, Meath, Monaghan, and Cavan.

The centre offers advice and support, including hearing aid services, assistive technology and support groups.

Nationally, Chime also offers the support of its Explore Programme to support with access to further education and employment, and Child and Family services including social workers and a Deaf specialist multi-disciplinary team.

“As a charity, Chime’s provision of advice, services, and community support to Deaf and Hard of Hearing people, as well as its championing of equal rights and full inclusion, is remarkable,” said Minister Naughton at the opening.

“This opening is a continuation of my, and the Government’s, commitment to improving services for people with disabilities, and ensuring that they can live full lives with the same rights and access to services, education, transport, sport, culture, careers and means to live independently as all other citizens enjoy.” 

Sharing her personal story at the launch, Catriona McCaughey, a client of Chime, expressed her gratitude to the charity. 

“Chime have supported me through some very stressful times,” she said.

“I hope that by sharing my story, I can help raise awareness of the challenges Deaf people face, and highlight the importance of communication, connection, and equal access. 

“There are still too many barriers in Ireland, but with greater understanding and the right changes, we can build a society where no Deaf person is left behind.”

Chime CEO, Mark Byrne, said the centre would provide much needed services to the north-east, where there are over 20,000 people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. 

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“We are delighted to bring this service to Dundalk as part of our network of 12 dedicated centres and over 30 outreach clinics nationwide,” said Mr Byrne.

“Our goal is to bring essential services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people directly into communities, supporting individuals throughout their hearing care journey. 

“It will offer vital support, connection, and accessible resources to the local community.

“Chime is committed to building an inclusive community where Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals feel valued, supported and empowered.”