Collaborative thinking among all the stakeholders involved is required if the doors of the Cuisle Holiday Center are to remain open, according to independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.
Commenting on the matter, he said: “While the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) may wish to focus on a new vision for the future, the respite center at Donamon castle in Roscommon can run in tandem with that.
“This would allow the center to remain open past the end of this month, rather than having it close its doors for the final time.
“It appears as if there is a willingness there from the Divine Word Missionaries to provide assistance in relation to any confusion or problems around the lease.
“They also seem to be willing to help in monetary terms when it comes to solving some of the problems that have been highlighted by the IWA.
“In my view, this could be resolved for the betterment of all if there is a willingness from all of the stakeholders to find a resolution rather than to continue ahead with the closure,” he said.
Continuing, he added: “The center must not be allowed to close. It is vital that alternative moves are taken to ensure that the possibility for it to close is taken completely off the table.
“The center provides premium respite to wheelchair users from right across the country. It is renowned for the first-class services which it provides.
“The closure of such a facility would be a huge blow for both wheelchair users and their families.
“It would also have a big impact on the local community and tourism in the area.
“This is not even to mention the staff in the center who would be left scrambling to find new employment, with just weeks left until Christmas,” he concluded.
Michael Fitzmaurice – 0861914565