Fort Dunree, Co. Donegal

Fort Dunree is a non-profit taking company which was established to enhance the level of tourism on the Inishowen Peninsula by exploiting the attractiveness of a disused military fort.  The centre underwent major refurbishments in 2000, and again in 2006, and now incorporates walks, a museum, and a shop/ café. Following the most recent renovations, UCIT was delighted to provide the organisation with a loan to assist with fitting out costs.

We at Fort Dunree have found UCIT very easy to deal with and prompt in their loan process
David Magee, Manager, Fort Dunree, Co. Donegal

www.dunree.pro.ie

Lifford Association for Tourism, Commerce & Heritage Ltd. (LATCH Ltd), Co. Donegal

Lifford Association for Tourism, Commerce & Heritage Ltd. (LATCH Ltd.) is a non-profit taking company operating The Old Courthouse Visitor Centre and restaurant in the centre of the village. The Old Courthouse Visitor Centre houses a permanent historical exhibition and uses life size models, audio visual techniques and a wide range of artefacts to bring the history of the town and surrounding area alive.

UCIT (Ireland) has provided LATCH with a loan towards the costs of refurbishing a derelict wing within the building so that they may expand the restaurant. The refurbishment will double the seating area of the restaurant thereby allowing the organisation to generate additional revenue and will also increase the capacity of the Centre to hold meetings, classes and community events.

www.liffordoldcourthouse.com

Iontas Resource Centre, Co. Monaghan

One of Monaghan’s leading social enterprises, the Iontas Resource Centre in Conabury, has been given a substantial financial support package from UCIT (Ireland) Ltd.

A total of €600,000 of social finance has been provided to Castleblayney Trust, which is responsible for the Iontas Resource Centre, enabling the organisation to secure the future of a number of crucial community infrastructure services.

The Iontas Resource Centre is home to a wide variety of local organisations, including Castleblayney Community Childcare and the new Monaghan County Council library facilities. The centre also houses a theatre and arts centre, restaurant and is the base for the Blayney Blades and the ‘Mind Yourself’ suicide prevention group.

“The social finance received from UCIT provides lifeline funding to ensure that this project remains financially viable. The Iontas Resource Centre provides a number of inclusive, cross border community infrastructure services, which had been grossly lacking in the area for some time.”

Sister Celine McArdle, Director of the Iontas Resource Centre.

www.iontascastleblayney.ie

Offaly Westmeath Craft & Design Ltd, Co. Westmeath

Offaly Westmeath Craft & Design Ltd (OWCD) is a collective of craft makers, establishing a marketing powerhouse through which they can access dedicated marketing and developmental support whilst endeavouring to increase business levels.

UCIT (Ireland) has provided the organisation with a loan to match fund grant aid and sponsorship income to complete capital improvement works on the craft design outlet to ensure it functions as a high calibre flagship within the Republic of Ireland.

www.corecraftdesign.com