St Benedict’s Conference Launches Social Housing in Ennis
The Society of St Vincent De Paul (SVP) through the St Benedict’s Conference, Ennis has delivered 12 new social housing units at An T'Ard Clon Road, Ennis.
The new homes have been delivered with the support of Clare County Council and the Department of Housing Local Government and Housing through the Capital Assistance Scheme Programme at a total project cost of €3.65 million. The two-bedroom age friendly homes deliver accommodation for older people/people with disabilities with four suitable for wheelchair use.
The An tÁrd scheme has been developed to the highest and most sustainable standards - not just because of the level A energy rating to which they have been constructed and the mechanical ventilation and air to water systems which have been provided throughout, but also because of convenient location, within walking distance of practically all of the services and supports which any evolving community might require.
Tom Tiernan, St Benedicts Conference President, said. "At a time when the country is impacted by a housing crisis of mammoth proportions, it is highly appropriate that St Vincent de Paul should be in a position to contribute to the resolution of that crisis in such a meaningful way.
"Apart from the obvious benefits of being able to provide comfortable, spacious homes for so many deserving people, the rewards of doing so extend to several stakeholders who had significant inputs into the success of the project along the way. In particular, I'd like to thank the builder Liam O'Doherty and his team on the ground for their efficient delivery of the project and for the pride they took in ensuring a quality outcome was achieved - likewise his designers, engineers and other background expertise who were always in a position to deal with issues as they arose.
Denis Carty, SVP Clare Area President said: “The lack of suitable and affordable accommodation is one of the root causes for people experiencing poverty, something that our volunteers regularly encounter in their work in communities throughout County Clare. Far too many individuals and families they meet are in inadequate and precarious housing situations.”
“This project offers people hope. Having a home is fundamental to a person’s physical, psychological and social wellbeing. We need to see more projects like this to address the deep housing needs in our communities.”
