Field of Dreams, an educational and horticultural centre for adults with Down syndrome, was officially opened by Minister Simon Coveney in Cork recently. CField Construction, who engaged in the project as the main contractor on a pro-bono basis, built the centre on the Curraheen Road. The project, pioneered by chairman of Down Syndrome Cork Ray O’Callaghan, is the first purpose-built facility of its kind in Ireland.
Field of Dreams includes a paved courtyard with two polytunnels, a series of garden spaces, as well as an admin building, kitchen, a road network and storage facilities. CEO at CField Construction, Barry Crowley said, “While there are supports for children with Down syndrome, much less is available for the adult population. It is a unique concept with everything under one roof and we are delighted that the adults who use Field of Dreams will be able to achieve significant independence in this purpose-built facility.”
Speaking about his reasons for participating in the project on a pro-bono basis, Barry Crowley continued, “I am indebted to my lifelong friend John Linehan who first made me aware of Ray’s hopes and aspirations for the Field of Dreams. Patrick and I were immediately attracted to the opportunity and committed to help make it a reality. Personally, community projects are very close to my heart, and this one ticked all the boxes; it is a most deserving cause, it is local and you know every euro and every ounce of effort goes directly 100% to the cause. We are honoured Down Syndrome Cork accepted our offer to help and allowed CField to be part of the Field of Dreams. In addition to the work of our CField team, I’d particularly like to thank our supply chain who operated on ‘not for profit’ basis and all of whom immediately accepted the challenge to contribute to the effort and keep costs as low as possible. Their commitment and efforts allowed us together to deliver excellent value to the Field of Dreams.”
There are over 360 members of Down Syndrome Cork and 170 of them are adults. With a 95% rate of unemployment for adults with Down syndrome, Field of Dreams offers users a chance to learn, upskill and gain work experience in Cork businesses and integrate more into society.
“When you engage with the team at Down Syndrome Cork and Field of Dreams and witness the commitment the team has for their loved ones and their cause, it is impossible not to be captivated.,” said Michael Trench, Construction Director at CField Construction.
The recent Field of Dreams opening was attended by dignitaries including Minister Simon Coveney, Mayor of County Cork, Cllr. Declan Hurley, landscape gardener Diarmuid Gavin, solicitor Gerald Keane, and friends, family and members of Down Syndrome Cork.
CField Construction is a building and civil engineering contractor, with experience in a wide range of sectors operating throughout Ireland and the UK. Founded in 2011 by Patrick Crowley, the company is comprised of experienced professionals who have been at the heart of the construction industry for several years. CField Construction currently employees around 70 staff and has offices in Cork and London.
