Lasting Legacy

Generosity of Joe and Helen O’Toole will benefit future generations

THE late Joe and Helen O’Toole are the Chuck Feeneys of this region, according to An Tánaiste Micheál Martin, as he officially opened the new €25 million Community Nursing Unit in Tuam – named after the Tuam business couple.

The public got the first chance to view the modern two-storey facility that stands between the Primary Care Centre and Ambulance Base this week. From its impressive rooftop garden, residents and visitors will be able to look out over part of the town, even peak into Tuam Stadium — rain or shine.

The O’Toole’s, who owned the SuperValu supermarket and O’Toole’s drapery store in the town, donated €7 million towards the construction of the 50-bedroom CNU, which includes a dedicated dementia wing with its own spacious, secure and peaceful garden.

“The size of their contribution is enormous for one family,” remarked the Tánaiste on Monday afternoon. He said it was fantastic to see facilities of this quality and that there is a need for more such services as the country’s population gets older.

“I note the open invitation for visitors to come to the facility and this is important to ensure that we do not disconnect residents from their communities,” he added…

For more, pick up this week’s Tuam Herald or log onto our digital edition HERE