On Wednesday 31st August, the Headquarters and Training Centre of FASD Ireland located at 51 O’Connell Street in Ennis, County Clare were officially opened by Minister of State for Disability Anne Rabbitte TD. 

Guests included Clare Colleran Molloy (Mayor of Ennis), Margaret O’Brien (CEO Ennis Chamber of Commerce), Cathal Crowe TD and Senator Timmy Dooley. There were also representatives from the HSE, Ennis CAMHs and Rice College, as well as the Haven Hub and NOVAS. 

The event commenced with a welcoming speech from Tristan Casson-Rennie, CEO of FASD Ireland, and this was followed by an introduction to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme by Paul White, CEO of HDSS. 

Mayor Clare Colleran Molloy extended her welcome to the town of Ennis and shared that she also has a hidden disability and was very pleased that both FASD Ireland and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower has chosen Ennis as a base. 

Cathal Crowe TD, a former primary school teacher, spoke about his experience of FASD and hidden disabilities in the Classroom and in public life, as well as reflecting on the early days of FASD Ireland and how he was both supportive and encouraging growth of the social enterprise. 

Minister Rabbitte shared her views of the importance of recognising FASD, and also her concerns that Ireland needs to take note of a simple message: Alcohol should not be consumed whilst pregnant. Minister Rabbitte went on to say “We are ready for the Sunflower, I think Ireland is in a really positive space when it comes to disabilities at the moment.” 

Minister Rabbitte concluded her speech by unveiling a plaque commemorating her visit to the offices. 

Tristan Casson-Rennie said “We were honoured to have Minister of State for Disability Anne Rabbitte and so many people involved with FASD attend our official opening. Minister Rabbitte’s speech recognising FASD as a disability gives hope to the many thousands of people in Ireland living with FASD” 

FASD Ireland gave guests advance screening of their campaign that was launched on 1st September across all major social media platforms to recognise World FASD Awareness Month. This is titled “You never drink alone when you are pregnant” and gives advice that if you are thinking of having a baby or are already pregnant, then you should stop drinking alcohol.