President McAleese visits Shillelagh

February 1999

A very small town had a very special visitor on Monday. President Mary McAleese made a whirlwind visit to the recently opened respite centre at the Ardeen Cheshire Home in Shillelagh. The town turned out sporting tricolour flags to welcome their esteemed visitor.

Speaking at the opening the President commented on the crucial role that respite care plays in the overall spectrum of services for the disabled.

‘All of us even Presidents; need a break every so often to recharge batteries. This is especially true for carers of people with disabilities. It removes a huge burden from carers to know that the person they are caring for will be well looked after in this period.’

She also noted how important it is for the disabled person to also have a break away.

Following the President’s address the Cheshire home was blessed by Fr. Scallan and the Rev. David Oxley. President Mary McAleese also met with some of the people in the care of the Cheshire home and was presented with some beautiful items to bring an end to a lovely day.