Down Syndrome Cork hopes to begin work on new market garden project

A charity that supports adults with Down syndrome hopes to break new ground with a special market garden project.

Down Syndrome Cork says it intends to apply for planning permission within weeks to develop its ‘Field of Dreams’ project on the western outskirts of Cork city in what’s believed to be the first project of its kind in the country.

The Munster Agricultural Society (MAS) has made available a three-acre site for the scheme at its sprawling landbank in Curraheen which will allow DS Cork train its clients to grow their own fruit and vegetables.

It is also hoped the demonstrator project will provide education, training and rewarding work opportunities for Down Syndrome Cork clients in a “safe, secure and inspirational environment”.

A planning application should be lodged by the end of the month, and it is hoped the garden will be ready for sowing by next June.

John Sweetnam, 45, from Glanmire, said he is looking forward to being involved.

“This project is for creating a garden for people with Down syndrome disabilities — some are deaf and some love to touch and smell plants and sow seeds. It is good for people like us to know what kinds of fruit herbs, vegetables and flowers can be grown. It’s also good for us to be out in the fresh air getting healthy exercise and making new friends,” he said.

The project is being backed by Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney, and Minister for State Kathleen Lynch, who has special responsibility for disability.

Down Syndrome Cork chairman, Ray O’Callaghan, said the project could not be delivered without the support of its various support partners.

MAS chairman Gerard Murphy said: “The principles of our society are based on agricultural, industrial and educational development, so we see this as a good social partnership to develop the facility.”

www.downsyndromecork.ie