GALWAY, Oct. 22, 2025 — Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley, joined by Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton, visited Galway today to officially open two new residential centres and engage with a range of disability-focused organisations. The visit highlights the government’s investment in inclusive care and support for disabled people, backed by a record €3.8 billion allocation in Budget 2026.
Corrib Lodge: A Home from Home
The day began with the opening of Corrib Lodge, a new children’s residential service operated by Resilience Healthcare. Located near Carnmore, the centre offers high-support accommodation for up to six children and young people aged 6–18 with autism, intellectual disabilities, and physical or sensory needs. The facility includes multiple apartments and a standalone unit, designed to promote independence and comfort in a tranquil setting.
Minister Foley praised the initiative, stating:
“I am honoured to open Corrib Lodge and witness the profound impact these services have on children and families. This is about building futures, not just facilities.”
Ability West: State-of-the-Art Services
Later, the Ministers attended the launch of Ability West’s new Day and Residential Services at Garraí na Sailí, Letteragh Road. The site includes a 3,500 sq. ft. Day Service Centre for up to 25 individuals, a fully accessible bungalow for four residents requiring enhanced medical care, and three standalone apartments for supported independent living.
Minister Naughton, a Galway TD, said:
“These new services reflect the step change we promised in disability support. They are a testament to what targeted investment and community partnership can achieve.”
Broader Engagement
The Ministers also visited BOSCI Cara, Café Link, and Arts Alive, engaging with staff and service users. Café Link, a social enterprise in Shantalla, currently employs 16 staff with intellectual disabilities and trains 14 more in culinary skills.
The day concluded with visits to Galway Autism and Enable Ireland Galway, both providing essential services to children and adults with complex needs.
Strategic Context
The openings align with the goals of Ireland’s National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People, launched last month, and the Youth Homelessness Strategy 2023–2025, which includes housing-led interventions for young adults.
Summary: The opening of Corrib Lodge and Ability West’s new facilities in Galway marks a major milestone in Ireland’s disability services. Ministers Foley and Naughton reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive care, backed by historic funding and a rights-based approach to service delivery.
Sources: Department of Children, Disability and Equality; Resilience Healthcare; Ability West.
