Deaf Hear Services under threat says MacSharry
SLIGO/LEITRIM Fianna Fail Deputy Marc MacSharry has expressed concern for the future of local services for the deaf and hard of hearing.
The Sligo-based Deaf Hear team is under threat according to Deputy MacSharry.
Deaf Hear, based at the Abbeyville Centre in Sligo, provides services from hearing Care, hearing aids to assistive technology, family support and mental health.
Deputy MacSharry said: “It has come to my attention that as part of a costly rebranding of the organisation known as Deaf Hear soon to be called ‘Chime’, national bosses of Deaf Hear are seeking to close the Sligo service and run it from Letterkenny.
“This is totally unacceptable. These services are critical to those people who have suffered total hearing loss or are hard of hearing.
“Sadly we are used to Governments seeking to strip our communities of vital services but I didn’t expect it from the charity sector.
“This organisation is in receipt of public funds and employ a small but fantastic team servicing vulnerable members of our community,” he added.
“I have learned that nationally this organisation is seeking the same level of funding from the HSE but wish to close the Sligo Centre.
“I have spoken with the HSE who in fairness are adamant that the centre and services remain in Sligo if funding is being continued.
“I am calling on the CEO of Deaf Hear to clarify the position and reiterate his organisation’s commitment to Sligo and the future of the local services and staff,” Deputy MacSharry added.