The official opening of the new group home in Carrickmacross has been a long time coming.
That's according to Minister of State for Disabilities, Anne Rabbitte, who officially opened Drummond Lodge Group Home this morning.
The facility for people with physical and sensory disabilities got the green light for construction in 2006 and was finished in 2017.
However, a number of issues in relation to funding meant the HSE were unable to run the facility.
Minister Rabbitte spoke to our reporter Diarmuid Pepper, and while she acknowledged the delays, she said today was a fantastic day for the residents and their families (CLICK ON THE IMAGE ABOVE TO PLAY AUDIO):
Our reporter also spoke to local TD Matt Carthy.
He says today's celebrations were "soured" by the long delays that hit the group home.
Deputy Carthy also told our reporter, Diarmuid, that there are still some design flaws in the Group Home that need sorted:
Local councillor Colm Carthy was at the official opening and said there were a lot of happy people today.
He praised the residents and their families for fighting for the facility:
Cathaoirleach of the Carrickmacrross-Castleblayey MD, PJ O'Hanlon, said he was delighted to see the home opened, but added that lessons need to be learned:
Elsewhere, local TD Niamh Smyth said it was an emotional day for the residents and their families:
