It was a dream come through for the Laois branch of Down Syndrome Ireland has been allotted four acres of land for their ‘Field of Dreams’.
Abbeyleix will be the site for the ‘Field of Dreams’ and will be used as a sheltered employment training centre of excellence for adult members of Laois Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI).
There is a ‘use it or lose it’ clause to the lease, followed by a 25-year lease if used thereafter.
This model is similar to the highly popular Cork branch’s ‘Field of Dreams’ and PRO of the Laois branch, Michael Gorman, is extremely excited about the upcoming project.
Only positives for adult members of Down Syndrome Ireland
“Our adult population will benefit greatly from this venture by helping to prepare them for meaningful employment in the community. This will lead to positive mental health and well-being and support them to integrate fully into our communities around the county,” said Michael.
Michael is also encouraging employers to get on board with the venture.
“There is empirical evidence to show that, where people with Down Syndrome are employed by a company, there have been positive results for employers, such as less sickness and absenteeism among fellow workers with an increase in productivity also.
“People with Down Syndrome have an infectious nature that makes others working around them happier for being in their company. So, there is a dividend for employers to buy into a venture like ours,” he added.
Michael thanked all those involved in getting the project up and running, include a generous donor or two. “A donation of €10,000 from celebrity solicitor Gerald Keane after the Heritage Hotel Killenard GALA Ball in aid of DSI Laois branch gave us the impetus to persevere and follow our dream.
The Family Centre in Gort Na nOir Abbeyleix were also highly commended for looking after DSI members throughout their lives.
Laois DSI made a PowerPoint presentation to the full chamber of Laois County Council in May 2017 and received huge support from all county councillors present.
“Likewise, the support from Chief Executive John Mulholland in follow up meetings was again hugely positive. Director of Services Donal Brennan coordinated the whole process and put a huge amount of work into making sure everything was feasible and held several meetings with us to this end before proceeding with the proposal.
“In fact, we were greatly heartened by the positivity we met from everyone involved in our pursuit of this project,” said Michael.
Laois DSI are now hoping for the same support from members of the public to help finance the project.
“We are hoping to get huge support from the people of Laois in helping to finance this venture. People with intellectual difficulties have a great deal to offer in the workplace and in the community as a whole.
“This Centre will, in the fullness of time, be home to a building that will house all necessary therapies and supports for all members to augment the employment training programmes we will be running there,” added Michael.
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