A public meeting has been organised in the Adult Education Centre, Mountmahon (The old Tech), Abbeyfeale on Thursday, October 23 at 7.30pm to discuss the threatened closure of the centre. An appeal has been issued to people from Abbeyfeale and environs to attend and to help to devise a plan to keep the facility open. An invitation has also been offered to all local politicians. Denis Collins, Chairman of the Abbeyfeale Men’s Shed which is based on the grounds of the Adult Ed. Centre said “.This is a vital part of the social, educational and recreational facilities in this area. The building is used during daylight hours for classes, social clubs, active retired groups etc and is utilised by all ages – youth’s, teenagers and adults. He continued “ Abbeyfeale is an area of high unemployment, it is crucial that the Centre remains open as sometimes this facility is the only outlet where people can interact with each other”. Denis pointed to the Mission Statement displayed on the reception wall which states that the aim of the Adult Education Centre is ‘to provide opportunities for all learners so that they can achieve their educational and personal development goals, and uphold the values of lifelong learning and strive to provide a welcoming community environment to empower individuals to acquire all the knowledge and skills they require throughout their lifetime’. He went on to say that it is vital that these supports are available to the community going forward. Madeline O’Connor – a founder member of the Wednesday Club and the Creative Writers Group, both of which hold weekly meetings at the centre said “This facility cannot be allowed to close as closure would be devastating for the whole community.” She appealed for a high turn out on October 23 and said that it is imperative that everyone who has used the centre should attend the public meeting.

Ends: Marian Harnett 087 6866450

Denis Collins can be contacted on 0876497671


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