Public libraries in Galway County are to receive €26,600 from my department – the Department of Rural and Community Development – and Galway County Council to invest in sensory facilities and equipment.
This will help individuals with sensory impairments, special education needs and specific learning differences, including those on the autism spectrum.
My department will be providing €20,000 of the funding while a further €6,600 will come from Galway County Council.
I am acutely aware of the challenges facing those living with autism or who have sensory challenges and I am delighted that we can support them in this way.
Services and equipment that may be provided include sensory rooms, sensory play equipment and toys, assistive technologies and autism friendly signage and books.
The Department of Rural and Community Development will be investing €600,000 in sensory services for public libraries nationally. Another €20,000 will come from local authorities.
Public libraries play a very important part in providing additional services to achieve our Sustainable Development Goals and this funding will increase their capacity to continue to do so.
I want to acknowledge the work of the all those who delivery library services and the support of my ministerial colleague, Minister Michael Ring TD, in making this funding available.