McGimpsey cuts first sod at new facility for disabled children in Omagh

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has cut the sod at a facility which will significantly enhance respite services for disabled children and their families.

The new £2.2million development will be based at the former Omagh General Hospital site and will provide short term breaks for children up to 18 years of age. The facility will be opened in 2011.

Cutting the first sod at the site, the Minister said: “I am committed to providing integrated support services for children with disabilities and their families.

“We know that residential respite is an extremely important element of this support. The short term breaks this new development will provide will be vital, for not only looking after the needs of children with disabilities, but also provide much needed respite for parents and carers who require ongoing support to provide care.

“Once completed this new development will provide a state of the art, child-friendly facility, which will enable children with complex needs, and their families, to avail of the opportunities and services they need and deserve.”

Chairman of the Western Health and Social Care Trust, Mr Gerard Guckian said: "Following approval to proceed with the development of this new residential respite facility, we are delighted to welcome the Health Minister Mr McGimpsey on site to formally mark the start of construction. The work commencing today is a significant step towards providing families in the Omagh and Fermanagh areas with more children's respite opportunities and overall will enhance respite services across the Western Trust."

Notes to editors

1. The new facility will offer short term breaks for children up to 18 years of age. The main purpose will be to ensure that the break is a positive experience for both the children and the families who require ongoing support to provide care.
2. The new facility will replace the service for children currently shared at Beltany House, Omagh, which will continue to provide an adult service.
3. Press enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 02890520575 or out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.