Operated by the Clare Family Resource Centre, the €1.5m state of the art facility will cater for up to 85 children. The 5,000 sq ft building will be located on the Watery Road on a site purchased from the local authority last year.
Project contractor K & D Whelan Construction Limited of Newhall, Ennis has estimated that work on the crèche will be completed by late 2008.
Mayor of Clare Cllr Patricia McCarthy and Mayor of Ennis Cllr. Tommy Brennan turned the sod on the new facility this morning. Representatives of the HSE and the Clare County Childcare Committee also attended the ceremony.
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"In turning this sod we are marking an important stage in our ongoing efforts to provide a new, modern and well-equipped childcare facilities for the people of County Clare," said Ms Maureen Keane, Manager, Clare Family Resource Centre.
"The population of Ennis has increased greatly over the past decade with further significant increases predicted over the coming years. Therefore, it is necessary to upgrade the town's existing infrastructure, including the provision of additional childcare places."
Commenting on the new facility, Mr Peter Sheehy, CFRC Board Chairperson, said: "The Board are delighted that all the hard work over the last two years has culminated in a purpose built, state of the art facility that is available for families in Clare. The Board would like to pay tribute to the dedication of Manager Maureen Keane and her hard working colleagues."
The Clare Family Resource Centre is funded and supported by various organisations including the Office of the Minister for Children, Pobal, Clare County Childcare Committee, HSE and FAS. The Office of the Minister for Children has provided funding of €1m for the new centre.
(JM)
