Imelda Goldsboro (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Cathaoirleach and welcome the Minister of State here today to discuss this important issue.

I speak on behalf of the board of Cluain Training and Enterprise Centre in Clonmel which is located across from the courthouse in Nelson Street. The Cluain Training and Enterprise Centre provides specialist training supports and employment services for adults with mental health needs, acquired brain injuries or who are on the autism spectrum. Services include rehab training focusing on positive health and social inclusion, vocational training focusing on preparation for and progression to employment or further education, day services, and social enterprise activities. It also provides employment for people with numerous other issues who are living and working in and around Clonmel and south Tipperary. It allows them to integrate within the community to reach their full potential.

The centre provides support to more than 70 trainees through a variety of programmes and employs 21 staff, full and part time. Since 2019, however, the centre has struggled financially to maintain its current level of service provision. This is primarily due to a change in the funding model which supported service delivery in the centre. While much of the funding has been provided through the disability budget, the mental health budget must also meet its responsibility to provide funding for this excellent training centre facility.

I thank Minister of State, Deputy Butler, for recently visiting this centre and taking the opportunity to see first hand the great work it is doing, the training provided and the beautiful arts, crafts and products made by the users of this facility. I also acknowledge the great work carried out by the board and ask the Minister of State to engage positively in providing funding to ensure the sustainability and ongoing services in this centre and to ensure they are secure.