There's good news this week for those caring for disabled children.

The Stormont Health Minister Michael McGimpsey yesterday announced a £2.2million investment to develop a new residential respite facility for disabled children in the Western Trust area.

The new facility, which will be based at the former Omagh General Hospital site, will significantly enhance respite services to the local community by catering for the needs of disabled children and their families within the Omagh and Fermanagh area.

The new facility will offer short breaks for children aged up to 18 and will replace the service for children at Beltane House in Omagh, which will continue to help adults.

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"I am committed to providing innovative and integrative support services for children with disabilities and their families," he said.

"Residential respite, particularly for children with complex needs, is an extremely important component in delivering these services."

The Western Health Trust will move on the design and building of the centre at the former Omagh general hospital site.

Western Trust Assistant Director of Children's Mental Health and Disability, Mr Kieran Downey said the investment represented real tangible progress.

"I am delighted to share the news with parents and carers of the children who will avail of the improved services", he said.

"The child-friendly facility will host a dedicated staff team allowing parents and carers to have a much need break from their ongoing caring responsibility."

The new facility is hoped to be ready by December 2010.

(BMcC/KMcA)