Glenbrohane, a small rural village in County Limerick is nestled at the foothills of the Sliabh Riadh Mountain. Situated just 3km off the main R513 route, linking Limerick City and Mitchelstown Co. Cork, this small peaceful village has been described by many visitors as a hidden gem.

Sadly, this close-knit community of four hundred and thirty has been touched by great tragedy. A number of people from Glenbrohane and from neighbouring communities have died by suicide. The sudden and unexpected loss and grief along with so many questions that would never be answered led to a period of deep reflection in Glenbrohane.

Out of this place of sadness and sorrow grew an ambitious plan, a plan to improve the mental health and wellbeing of people by creating a community hub. The aim of the project was simple:

"To create a community facility called “The Local Hub” which will address rural/social isolation in Glenbrohane and the surrounding areas. The Local Hub will provide a new space in the community where people can meet and interact while enjoying a cup of tea/coffee and something to eat. It will provide an opportunity for a friendly chat and to hear some news while dropping in for some essential groceries. The Hub will also offer large number of additional ancillary services aimed at promoting positive mental health and well being.”

---

Making The Dream A Reality!

The first major step on the way to making this dream a reality was to identify and acquire suitable premises.  Luckily, the perfect location - the former Sliadh Riadh Public house in Glenbrohane - was up for sale. The owners of the building (Mike and Joanie Tobin) believed in the idea of the Local Hub and decided not to proceed with selling until the group could purchase it from them. Plans on how to redevelop the old public house into a multipurpose Community Hub were drawn up and planning permission obtained.  

Turning a hundred-year-old building into a community facility was more costly than first anticipated; there were lots of hidden costs because of the buildings age as well as a Japanese knotweed infestation. These setbacks did not deter the project committee who worked tirelessly to secure the funds needed.

 Thankfully the project was blessed to be one of the very first supported by the Governments Rural Regeneration and Development Funds. The project has also received generation donations from philanthropic organisations. The Local Hub Committee also held a number of successful fundraisers. 

---

How can you help?

The total cost of the project is €760,000. Currently, €40,000 match funding is needed to complete the project. This is where you can help! All money donated will go directly to the project. Help us to create something special for our community and for everyone who calls Glenbrohane home.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” Helen Keller

This audio piece featuring the Local Hub, Glenbrohane was made by Grey Heron Media, for the radio series 'Together Stronger', broadcast on Tipperary Mid West Community Radio. It was recorded in 2019.

---

Find out more about The Glebrohane Local Hub Project