Sligo County Council asked to explore possibility of building retirement homes

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

A motion before the meeting of the Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District heard a motion from Cllr Michael Clarke calling on the County Council to explore the possibility of building retirement houses in towns and villages in a public/private partnership to facilitate older people who need to downsize and move nearer to public services.

Speaking to his motion Cllr Clarke said, “The State should step in for older people who need protection. I believe the land should be state owned and a public/private company set up. A lot of people who are living in big homes could buy into the scheme and make homes available for families.”

Cllr Clarke noted “It wouldn’t be a huge financial burden,” on the local authority.

Referring to the ‘retirement village’ in Enniscrone, Cllr Gerard Mullaney said, “They are supported by meals on wheels and local services. It is very streamlined and is a safe environment for older people.”

Emer Concannon, Sligo County Council Director of Services said ahead of preparing a housing delivery action plan, the local authority will be given target numbers by the Department. She added, “There is an emphasis on older persons. Downsizing is Government policy as well. They are the dynamics we are looking at for the next number of months. We will be guided by national policy.”

When Cllr Paul Taylor queried if there would be pressure put on older people to sell their property, Cllr Clarke insisted, “It is all voluntary.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.