The Official Opening of the new premises for Carrickmacross Youthreach

Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB) is delighted to announce the official opening of the new premises for Carrickmacross Youthreach Centre.

The centre was officially opened on Friday 22 March by CMETB Chairperson, Cllr. PJ O’Hanlon alongside Chairperson of the Youthreach Board Cllr. Clifford Kelly and CMETB Chief Executive, Dr Fiona McGrath.

Speaking at the opening event, Cllr. O’Hanlon said: “This marks a momentous occasion for the Carrickmacross community and reinforces the commitment of CMETB to providing quality education and training opportunities for young people.”

“This moment is particularly special for me, as someone who grew up in this town, to witness new beginnings for our Youthreach Centre, it fills me with immense pride and excitement for our young people and wider community.”

The Youthreach learners and staff have now made the move to the Main Street in Carrickmacross, to the former Ulster Bank building.  The move to this new location signifies a significant step forward for the Youthreach Centre, offering additional and enhanced facilities for learners.

Previously, Youthreach was located in the Holy Family Hall, which served as a dedicated space for Carrickmacross Youthreach Centre for 15 years, however the new premises on the main street provides improved amenities and is poised to elevate the profile of Youthreach in the local community.

Speaking at the launch event, CMETB Chief Executive, Dr Fiona McGrath, said:

“Today marks a significant milestone, not just a change of location for Carrickmacross Youthreach, but a transformation that will elevate the opportunities available to our learners and strengthen our ties within the community. These new premises on Main Street offer improved amenities and a greater opportunity to raise the profile of Youthreach in the local community. Today, we are not only providing enhanced facilities but also reaffirming our commitment to valuing diversity and ensuring that every individual has the chance to thrive.”

The Youthreach programme is designed for individuals who have left school without formal qualifications, offering them opportunities for return to education, personal development, vocational training, and valuable work experience. Youthreach adopts a learner-centred approach, assessing each learner’s needs individually to create a supportive learning environment.

The new premises aims to enhance the overall experience for learners, providing a conducive atmosphere for growth and development. The central location on the main street contributes to raising awareness and recognition of the Youthreach programme within the community.

Speaking at the opening event, Bernadette Duffy (Co-ordinator, Carrickmacross Youthreach) said “As the manager of Carrickmacross Youthreach, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr Fiona Mc Grath, CMETB Chief Executive, Dr Linda Pinkster, CMETB Director of FET, Carol Kelly, CMETB Adult Education Officer and members of the Youthreach Board of Management who have made this dream a reality.”

“Today marks a significant milestone, a day of celebration and promise. Our commitment to education and community development has led us to this momentous occasion. Today is a great day for the young people of Carrickmacross and an exciting opportunity for growth. Youthreach is committed to fostering lifelong learning, personal development, and community engagement. With our new state-of-the-art facilities and a passionate team, we endeavour to empower individuals to thrive in an ever-evolving world for many years to come.”

Carrickmacross Youthreach Centre offers a diverse range of training and education opportunities for young people, with many courses leading to Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) awards. These awards contribute to the learners’ skill development, making them more competitive in the job market. Equally, there are many progression pathways open to Youthreach learners that can take them into Further and Higher Education.

CMETB currently manages six Youthreach centres in the Cavan/Monaghan region, three in County Cavan, located in Cavan Town, Cootehill and Kingscourt and three in County Monaghan, located in Castleblayney, Carrickmacross and Monaghan Town.

For more information about Carrickmacross Youthreach Centre and its programmes, please contact:  Bernadette Duffy T: 042 9673906 or E: bernadetteduffy@cmetb.ie

Pictured above:

L-R Carol Kelly (Adult Education Officer, CMETB), Dr. Fiona McGrath (Chief Executive, CMETB), Bernadette Duffy (Carrickmacross Youthreach Manager), Cllr PJ O’Hanlon (Chairperson, CMETB), Cllr. Clifford Kelly (Chairperson, CMETB Youthreach Board) and Dr. Linda Pinkster (Director of FET, CMETB)