Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, formally opened a new sensory garden in his hometown of Ballina. The outdoor space is designed as a calming, therapeutic sanctuary to enhance the lives of people with sensory needs.

The initiative received €54,570 through the Community Recognition Fund 2024. Established in 2023, the fund recognises the major efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland.

In Mayo, the Community Recognition Fund has provided over €4.7 million towards the delivery of more than 80 projects supporting towns and villages across the county. The sensory garden also received €65,000 in 2021 from the then Minister for Disability, Anne Rabbitte. The Minister praised the local organisations involved, highlighting the contribution of Western Care, Flow Community Project and Ballina Community Clean-up.

Speaking at the opening in Ballina, Minister Calleary said: "I am delighted to be here in my hometown to witness the great work that has been completed here in this sensory garden through the Community Recognition Fund. This space will provide a calming and therapeutic environment for all, particularly children and adults with additional needs, disabilities or those living with an illness or health condition.

"It is a wonderful example of how investment in our communities can create spaces that are inclusive, welcoming and make a real difference to people's lives. Huge credit must go to Western Care, Flow Community Project and Ballina Community Clean-up who have done trojan work on this project.

"I also want to thank my colleague, Senator Anne Rabbitte for her commitment to the project."