For Media Enquiries please
contact
Trish Verheij
Communications and Executive Office Manager
Direct Line 091-540911
Mobile 087-3288299
Email ceom@abilitywest.ie
Trish Verheij
Communications and Executive Office Manager
Press Releases
Official Opening of Della’s Hub in Tuam
Della Burke bequeathed her property in Tuam to Ability West. The house recently opened as new Day Service for Ability West. Julie Silke Daly and Ursula Burke cut the ribbon. This is a fascinating story of the trailblazer Della Burke and how she campaigned for children with special needs in the Tuam Area.
Minister Anne Rabbitte Unveils New Facilities at St. Dympna’s 50th Anniversary
Minister Anne Rabbitte announced a new residential unit for Portumna during St. Dympna's 50th anniversary celebrations. She also opened a new Sensory Garden at St. Dympna’s Day Service. Ability West CEO Julie Silke Daly and Minister Rabbitte praised the staff, volunteers, and community supporters.
Annual Best Buddies Celebration Ball Highlights Social Inclusion Efforts
The 14th Annual Best Buddies Celebration Ball, held on April 12th at the Clayton Hotel, celebrated Ability West's program fostering friendships between people with and without disabilities. Participants from the University of Galway and the Best Buddies Citizens Programme were honored. Minister Anne Rabbitte praised the initiative's impact. Last year, the program received €28,000 from the AIB Community Fund, enhancing its activities and future plans.
Ability West AGM Highlights Achievements and Challenges
At its AGM on June 11, 2024, Ability West reported on its 2023 activities, including operating 28 residential homes and 27 day services for 493 individuals. The organization faced staffing shortages, pay disparity issues, and a €1 million deficit. Improvements included an aggressive recruitment plan and pay increases. Minister Anne Rabbitte and Interim CEO Julie Silke Daly addressed the meeting, noting compliance improvements and future plans. A new Constitution was adopted to enable Ability West to become a Housing Body. The meeting was attended by families, service users, and professional representatives.
Thank You
Thank you to the people we support and staff in our services who were involved in photography for this website. Thanks also to Andrew Downes | Xposure.ie for his expert photography.