Representatives from St Mary of the Angels in Beaufort met with officials from the Department of Health to outline their concerns for the future of the facility.
St Mary of the Angels (SMOA) is home to 76 people who are severely and profoundly physically and intellectually disabled.
Recently, their parents and relatives expressed concern around plans for the future of the facility.
This followed recent news that St John of God Community Services, the current provider, may have to sell off their assets and properties to meet their debts.
The meeting was organised and attended by Minister for Education and Kerry Fianna Fáil TD Norma Foley, along with the Minister of State with responsibility for Disability Anne Rabbitte and a number of her officials from the Department of Health.
Parents, guardians and relatives put forward their views and concerns regarding its future and Minister Norma Foley says it provided a positive first step in terms of engagement between the minister, HSE and the family members.
Minister Rabbitte was asked for a guarantee that St Mary of the Angels and its land would remain in trust for the benefit of its residents.
The SMOA representatives also asked to be included in the decision-making process and to have a more active management role in the running of the facility.
Minister Norma Foley says SMOA and its land was entrusted to the provider for the benefit of its residents and future residents, adding it’s important this remains the case and it will always be utilised for the benefit of its current and future residents.
The Kerry TD praised Minister Rabbitte for her commitment to keep working with the families and guardians for the benefit of the service.
