Presidential greeting for children at new creche

CITIZENS who reach the age of 100 traditionally get a greeting in the post from Áras an Uachtaráin.

Hayleigh Ryan turned three yesterday — and did a lot better. As well as a special cake she got a hug from President Mary McAleese at the official opening of the Kings Island creche at St Mary’s Park, one of Limerick city’s regeneration estates.

Hayleigh and her friend Jayden McNamara were having fun in the toy boat when the President was told it was also a very special day for the toddler and went to chat with them.

“I’d love to go into the boat with ye,” Mrs McAleese told them.

Eight-month-old Mia Walsh is one of the youngest children attending the creche.

“She’s a little diva,” exclaimed Mrs McAleese as Mia beamed smiles for the cameras.

The creche, which cost €1.4 million, caters for 65 children aged from three months to three years.

Mrs McAleese said: “This is Limerick at its absolute best, putting out its best for its children, so they will have the best and will be the best. It is on the most beautiful site by the Shannon. It is the nicest creche site anywhere and the nicest I have opened.”

One of the parents present for the opening was Geraldine Hayes from Assumpta Park, whose daughter Ava, aged three, attends the facility. The mum said: “It gives kids a great start. And it’s right at our door.”

Girls from St Mary’s primary school sang the Limerick rugby anthem, There is an Isle, for the opening, and it could be heard in Thomond Park, on the other side of the river.

Brendan Kenny, the chief executive of the Limerick Regeneration Agencies, said the new creche captures the essence of what the regeneration programme is all about.

He said: “Regeneration is about changing the present, but ultimately, it’s about building a brighter future and we do that, first and foremost, by providing for those who will be the future, the children of today.”