President Catherine Connolly visits Lus na Gréine community centre in Kilkenny

President of Ireland Catherine Connolly recently visited the new Lus na Gréine centre in Kilkenny, which is managed by The Thomas Hayes Trust.

The new facility, constructed by Kilkenny County Council for community use, is named Lus na Gréine, symbolising light, growth and resilience. It has been designed as a welcoming and multi-purpose community hub. The President met with staff, people who use the facility, and other members of the local community.

Developed by Kilkenny County Council as part of the Crokers Hill development and now operated by the Thomas Hayes Trust, Lus na Gréine is a new space where people can come together, connect, learn, work, socialise and build a stronger sense of community.

While the centre is firmly rooted in Crokers Hill, its doors are open to the wider Kilkenny community, providing space for community groups, organisations, businesses, clubs, families and individuals from across the city and county.

From community meetings and workshops to classes, children's activities, business meetings, family events and social gatherings, the centre will provide a flexible space for people and organisations to bring their ideas to life.

For the Thomas Hayes Trust, taking responsibility for Lus na Gréine represents a significant new chapter in its work.

Founder and CEO Angela Hayes said the centre reflects how the organisation's work has grown from responding to tragedy and mental health challenges to creating spaces that strengthen community and connection.