Red letter day for Limerick city community centre as Taoiseach pays a visit

THE sterling work done by staff at the St Munchin’s Community Enterprise Centre was recognised with a visit from the Taoiseach.

Leo Varadkar took time out of his schedule on his visit to Limerick to visit the Kileely centre, and in particularly the former St Lelia’s school to its south.

Since the national school closed in 2015, Linda Ledger and her staff have given the building a new lease of life, operating it as an age friendly campus.​

And it was a day of celebration for 12 adult learners there, as they received graduation certificates from An Taoiseach.

It comes two years after his last visit, when he was the Minister for Social Protection.

Then, he promised to Ms Ledger that he would return.

And on Friday, he kept that pledge, viewing the old school which has been transformed into a site for a small hairdressing business, kitchens to serve meals on wheels and enhanced classrooms.

“I’m delighted to be part of this occasion,” Mr Varadkar said, “I want to congratulate everyone who received their certificates today. I’m a great believer we should help every individual, and every business in each part of the country to reach its potential. We can only do that if you give people opportunities, and make sure everyone gets a fair go in life.

“Not everyone gets a fair go, or the opportunities they deserve. But if we can get those two things right, make sure everyone gets a fair go, I think we can build a much better Limerick and a much better country.”

Speaking directly to Linda, the Taoiseach said: “It’s wonderful to see how you can subvert bureaucracy and make things happen!

“You’d make a very good politician. It’s a skill you have.”