President visits Kells, Navan and Slane in whistlestop tour

President Mary McAleese was back in Meath again last week to officially open the Kells People's Resource Centre. The centre provides a central point for much-needed support services and programmes for the community of Kells and the surrounding area. A lone piper, Duncan Coull, greeted President McAleese, as she was met by Claudia Darley, chairperson, and Angela Murphy, co-ordinator of the centre. The President was then introduced to the voluntary board of management whose members have worked hard to achieve this important goal. She was given a tour of the new facility that has been transformed over recent months by the efforts of many local volunteers. Mrs McAleese was shown the gardens that are evolving under the care of the horticulture class, the music room where the students played for the President and the training room that facilitates numerous courses and activities. The Master of Ceremonies, the RTE broadcaster, author and local resident Myles Dungan, introduced the President to the assembled guests that included volunteers, service users and members of the community as well as representatives of community groups, local churches and public representatives. "The work done by so many local volunteers is quite evident in the development of the facility and the work of Kells People's Resource Centre. There is obviously wonderful community spirit in Kells and the work of the Resource Centre highlights the importance of a sense of community, that people have support and don't feel isolated," said President McAleese. Claudia Darley said: "We are honoured and delighted to have President McAleese to officially open the Resource Centre. Her presence will highlight the centre's role in facilitating support, hope and opportunities for the people of Kells and the surrounding area. Successfully securing the larger premises will enable us to expand and offer our services to many more people." Patricia Reilly, the centre's project administrator, said; "The new centre has already seen a significant increase in visitors requesting the various supports on offer and engaging in programmes and training courses. Our footfall was 8,025 in 2009 and is expected to see a significant increase in 2010. There is a need for our services and local people know that the resource centre is there to positively support them, especially in challenging times and situations." The President unveiled a plaque commemorating the official opening and Patricia Reilly presented Mrs McAleese with gifts of the work of talented local photographer Jass Foley and videos featuring Kells. An engraved mirror was gifted to the centre by Kells artisan, Ollie Smith, as a memento of the occasion. The new premises in the Old Carrick School, Lord Edward Street (opposite SuperValu), will accommodate all of the centre's services, programmes and events as well as providing numerous possibilities for the community. It now comprises office space, outreach room, all-purpose room, training rooms and resource/reception area.