O’Shea Calls for Extension of Day Centre Services in Charleville

Cork North West Fine Gael TD Deputy John Paul O’Shea has today called on the HSE to extend the operating hours of the McAuley Day Centre Service in Charleville, which currently operates only two days per week, despite rapidly growing demand from older people in the area.

Deputy O’Shea was responding to recent correspondence from the HSE confirming that while the McAuley Day Centre receives Section 39 support, no additional funding has yet been allocated to expand services, though the issue is under active review by Public Health Nursing and Primary Care for 2026.

Deputy O’Shea said the current limitations are not meeting community needs. “The McAuley Day Centre in Charleville provides essential supports—social engagement, meals, activities, health monitoring, and much needed respite for families. These services are invaluable, but operating only two days a week is not enough given the level of local demand. Many older people who would benefit simply cannot access the service as frequently as they need.”

He emphasised that expanding to additional days would significantly improve quality of life for older people in the region. “Extending the service would allow far more older people in Charleville and the surrounding area to avail of the high-quality care and support provided by the McAuley Day Centre. The staff and volunteers are doing exceptional work; they now need the resources to expand to meet the needs of our ageing population.”

Deputy O’Shea urged the HSE to prioritise Charleville in its 2026 planning. “Expanding this service is a practical step that would keep more older people well, supported, and connected within their own community. It deserves urgent attention.”

Charleville base Fine Gael Cllr. Aileen Browne added her support for the expansion, underscoring local demand. “Families across Charleville rely on the McAuley Day Centre. Week after week, we hear from older residents who would attend more frequently if the service was available. Increasing the number of operating days would make a meaningful difference to people’s lives and strengthen community supports across the town.”

Cllr. Browne added “This is a priority for local people, and I will continue to work with Deputy O’Shea to ensure the HSE recognises the need for this expansion. Older people in Charleville deserve the same access to day services as those in other parts of the region.”