Work to commence on €20m Daisy Lodge project

Children’s cancer charity, Cancer Fund for Children, is to proceed with construction of Daisy Lodge, its purpose-built therapeutic short break centre for children diagnosed with cancer and their families, in August. Following a public procurement process, the construction contract has been awarded to Connolly and Fee Ltd, with the build expected to take approximately eighteen months to complete.

This new 30,000 square ft therapeutic centre to be built on the shores of Lough Corrib in Cong, will offer families across Ireland, impacted by childhood cancer, a safe and restorative space to spend quality time together and reconnect. Families will benefit from expert therapeutic support delivered by the charity’s dedicated team of Cancer Support Specialists, enjoy complementary therapies and nutritious meals, take part in family activities, and connect with others going through similar experiences.

The total cost to build and equip Daisy Lodge is €20 million. In June 2023, the Department of Health pledged €5 million in capital funding for the project, along with €2.5 million from the Shared Island Fund. Thanks to the generosity of communities, businesses, funders, and donors across Ireland and beyond, the charity is now within reach of its target. Fundraising continues to ensure that families can begin accessing much-needed short breaks as soon as Daisy Lodge opens its doors in early 2027.

Children diagnosed with cancer will be referred for short breaks at Daisy Lodge by Cancer Fund for Children’s team of Cancer Support Specialists, who provide support to families both in the community and in hospital settings across the island of Ireland. The charity’s existing centre in County Down currently supports up to 1,800 family members each year. The addition of a second Daisy Lodge will double this capacity, enabling up to 4,000 family members annually to benefit from this vital service.

“For our team, this is much more than a construction project; the purpose holds personal weight for many of us, and it is a privilege to be a part of something that will deliver immeasurable benefits to families navigating cancer,” said Shane Connolly,” director of Connolly & Fee Ltd.

“We are looking forward to working in tandem with Cancer Fund for Children’s team, the local Cong community, and wider stakeholders. We hope that we can actively engage local supply chain partners and construction personnel in the delivery of this project,” he added.

In preparation for construction beginning in 2025, site clearance was completed last year under the supervision of both an archaeologist and an ecologist. A sub-base has been laid for a new access road, car park, building footprint and outdoor play area.

Once open, Daisy Lodge will create new full-time and part-time roles across hospitality, housekeeping, facilities management, administration, and therapeutic support. Cancer Fund for Children will continue to engage with the local community to foster shared opportunities, encourage volunteering, and raise awareness of the needs of families affected by childhood cancer.

“Today marks a truly groundbreaking moment for Cancer Fund for Children, as construction begins on our much-needed second therapeutic short break centre for families affected by childhood cancer,” said Phil Alexander, CEO of Cancer Fund for Children.

“This milestone would not have been possible without the incredible support of our stakeholders – including the Department of Health, HSE, the Shared Island Fund, the local community, funders and our generous donors.

“Together, we are creating a special place for families impacted by childhood cancer,” he concluded.