20-04-07

About the Centre

St. Catherine's Training Centre is located in 30 Tooraree, Ballyhaunis. The Centre was opened under the direction of County Mayo Vocational Educational Committee in September 2002 as an outreach of St. Catherine's Education & Resource Centre, Ballina. Since reopening in September the centre provides 17 training places all filled by members of the Traveller community. There are currently 7 members of staff working in St. Catherine's Training Centre, Ballyhaunis:

History of the Centre

The centre was originally opened in 1999 by FAS and Meitheal Mhaigheo and was run as a Community Employment Scheme. The scheme continued until Mayo Vocational Education Committee assumed responsibility in September 2002.
OFFICIAL OPENING
The centre was officially opened on the 10th March 2005 by Cllr. Jarleth Munnelly chairperson of the board of management of St. Catherine's Education and resource centres. The opening was well attended by members of mayo V.E.C. including Mr. Joe Langan C.E.O. and Pat Higgins A.E.O. and members of Mayo County Council including Mr. Ray Norton and Mr. Neil Sheridan etc. Cllr. John Cribbin was also in attendance. Canon Joe Cooney blessed the newly opened building. Afterwards all present enjoyed a buffet prepared by the students to celebrate the opening.