Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has warmly welcomed confirmation that Cork Education and Training Board (Cork ETB) has received ministerial approval to enter into a 10-year lease for a new home for Youthreach Macroom at the former An Post Sorting Office building in the town centre.
The development marks a significant milestone for the vital education service, which supports young people who have left mainstream second-level education and are seeking alternative pathways to learning, training and employment.
Youthreach Macroom’s current premises on the Millstreet Road had been deemed no longer suitable for teaching and learning, and following unsuccessful lease renewal negotiations, Cork ETB, in conjunction with SOLAS, worked to identify a modern, fit-for-purpose facility within the community.
The former An Post Sorting Office in Macroom
Deputy O’Shea said “I very much welcome the news that ministerial sanction has now been granted to allow Cork ETB to proceed with a 10-year lease for the former Post Office in Macroom. This is a hugely positive development for the young people who rely on Youthreach and for their families.
Youthreach provides a second chance and a fresh start for many young people. It is essential that the service operates in a modern, safe and supportive environment that reflects the value we place on further education and inclusion.”
The lease application, submitted to the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, was reviewed in conjunction with the Department of Education and Youth in late January, with ministerial approval subsequently issued. Cork ETB will now move to finalise the lease in the coming weeks, with assurances that the transition will be managed with minimal disruption to students.
Deputy O’Shea added “Locating Youthreach in the former An Post Sorting Office in the heart of Macroom is particularly welcome. A central location enhances accessibility, visibility and integration within the wider community. It sends a strong message that Youthreach is not on the margins, but at the very centre of our town and our education system. This new facility will allow Cork ETB to expand learning opportunities and continue meeting the diverse needs of young people across Macroom and the wider Cork North West area.”
Deputy O’Shea concluded by acknowledging the work of Cork ETB and all stakeholders involved in progressing the project and said he looks forward to seeing the new Youthreach facility fully operational in its new town-centre location.
An Tanaiste Simon Harris visiting Youthreach in Macroom a few years ago.
