Call to tackle Leitrim’s childcare shortages through repurposing of vacant buildings

The shortage of childcare facilities in Leitrim is a significant concern, with high costs and lengthy waiting lists preventing parents from returning to work.

At a meeting of Manorhamilton Municipal District, Cllr Felim Gurn called for the identification of suitable vacant buildings in Manorhamilton that could be repurposed into modern childcare facilities. He also urged efforts to secure funding for the development of state-of-the-art childcare facilities.

“The lack of childcare facilities has caused financial hardship for both mothers and fathers who cannot return to the workplace because of the lack of space available in the town,” Cllr Gurn’s motion stated.

“This problem needs to be rectified immediately as there are waiting lists of two to three years, and there cannot be more broken promises given to frustrated parents,” the motion continued.

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Cllr Gurn suggested working with the Manorhamilton Town Team to identify suitable empty buildings, emphasising that such a move could revitalise unused properties and provide much-needed childcare infrastructure.

Cllr Gurn’s motion was unanimously supported by elected members of Manorhamilton Municipal District.

While childcare provision is not within Leitrim County Council’s direct responsibility, exploring available properties through the Town Team will be considered. 

Additionally, Cllr Gurn put forward a separate motion calling for the resurfacing of the Lantagart/Gortnagregory road, pointing out that the road has not been resurfaced in over 30 years.

“Hopefully it will be done in the next road allocation,” he added. 

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