Independent Ireland leader visits Tuam

“SMALL facilities need to be provided locally and the land at Toghermore campus is a great opportunity for that.”

Those were the words of Independent Ireland leader and Cork South-West TD Michael Collins, who visited Tuam on Monday as he met with local Independent Ireland Councillor Shaun Cunniffe to get a handle on the issues in the area.

Deputy Collins was first brought to Toghermore Campus, a 50-acre site which has been in a limbo in recent years over its current and future uses.

The Health Planning Analysis and feasability study which was started last month by the HSE will decide the future use of Toghermore Campus and other HSE-owned properties in Tuam.

Meanwhile, the campus is currently used by the HSE to deliver national counselling services, mental health services, quality and risk services, paediatric outpatient services, as well as HR and administration support.

One of the buildings at the campus has also been made available temporarily to the OPW for the use of the Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention, Tuam (ODAIT), the agency overseeing the excavation works at the former Mother and Baby Home in Tuam.

“I believe there is a fantastic opportunity here to provide valuable services like walkways or pitches for the ladies football team along with other facilities that the local community desperately needs,” Deputy Collins told The Tuam Herald.

He emphasised that facilities like minor injury units or daycare centres should be available to the public locally, so that they won’t have to drive into the city to avail of them.

“The feasibility study will recognise the needs of local people, and the services would be delivered accordingly in the area," said the Independent Ireland leader.

“I am here today to talk to the people and make sure they feel there is someone listening. We need to work with the people on the ground up, so that we can bring these issues to the national parliament and deliver for the people."

Cllr Shaun Cunniffe also brought Deputy Collins to Tuam Stars GAA grounds, the Miller’s Museum and around Tuam Town.

“He was impressed with the facilities available at the GAA grounds and the works that are being done at the museum,” said Cllr Cunniffe.

“We took a walk around town and discussed the vacancies in town and our recent achievement of bringing in the ban on public drinking. I wanted to bring Michael up to speed with all issues in the town."