Cavan-Monaghan TD Cathy Bennett has outlined the importance of keeping Rainbow Lodge in Co Monaghan opened for respite care despite plans to close the facility by 2028.
Rainbow Lodge was opened back in October 2024 after a procurement process was completed by HSE Disability Services and the Talbot Group was awarded the contract to deliver this children's respite service in Monaghan.
Rainbow Lodge respite service operates seven days/nights per week on 360 days of the year and offers up to 1,800 respite bed nights each year.
It was revealed that Cavan and Monaghan Disability Services have secured a commitment for funding for Rainbow Lodge for a further two years until the September 2028, depending on the completion of the new respite centre located at Drumbear.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Deputy Cathy Bennett highlighted the importance of keeping both centres opened in Monaghan to meet the demand that is out there for families.
She said we need to ensure that services remain open in Monaghan and that we continue to grow respite services as opposed to closing them:
