Moate centre to reopen next month as part of winter vaccination drive

The HSE has agreed a lease with Moate Community Centre to reopen the premises as a vaccination centre next month.

While an exact opening date has not been set yet, a spokesperson confirmed the facility in the centre of the town will be used to deliver the autumn/winter vaccination programme from October.

“At least we know now it's in Moate, it's very central, and it served the community very well in the height of the pandemic," said Cllr Tom Farrell.

“Some sacrifices may have to be made but it's for the better of our health," he said.

He thanked the community for agreeing to lease the centre to the HSE as a vaccination centre.

“It shows that community spirit is alive and well in Moate,” he remarked.

The HSE said it has worked with the centre management to ensure that activities such as bingo can continue whilst the centre is operating for vaccinations.

However, it's understood the centre is not taking bookings for some community events that cannot be facilitated while the premises is being used as a vaccination centre.

Back in early June, Moate Community Centre closed as a vaccination centre in line with HSE policy to the cut the number of centres across the country.

At the time, health authorities stated that due to a large reduction in the numbers of people presenting at COVID19 vaccinations centres nationally, a countrywide plan for vaccination centres was prepared in which it was decided to reduce the number to 15 centres nationwide.

With winter approaching, it looks like the number of centres will be ramped up again as the HSE promotes its vaccination programme.

It's believed the current lease of the community centre, adjacent to Tuar Ard, runs from October right through to February.