This article is from page 6 of the 2012-10-16 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 6 JPG
THE community centre at the centre of John Paul Estate in Kilrush has remained closed since its caretaker Stephen O’Gorman retired.
Former Mayor of Kilrush Cllr Ian Lynch (FG) believes that the centre is the lifeblood of the community and must reopen as soon as possible.
He said the town council should “convene a community meeting with the residents of John Paul Estate to obtain residents’ input on how this council may assist in enhancing the existing community centre with the view to encouraging community growth and spirit” within the newly regenerated estate.
Speaking at the October monthly meeting of the council on Thursday night last, he said the local authority housing estate “looks great” and there is a change in attitude in the area.
“There is a great community spirit and people are working together,” he said. “If we could get a community project over there, I think it would enhance the community.”
Cllr Tom Clyne (Ind) said that a new caretaker must also be employed because no one was going to do it on a voluntary basis.
Kilrush town clerk John Corry said he was aware that there were a number of groups interested in opening and using the centre, and he was in discussions with many of them.
Among those hoping to make use of the facility is the community garda in his work with the community.
Mr Corry said there were some concerns about the insurance.
He said the insurance company had some concerns that there was not a caretaker in place.
The town clerk added that any group that used the facility would probably have to pay a nominal fee so as to help cover the insurance costs.