A respite centre for children with disabilities is set to open in Longford before the end of December.
The plan was announced by Minister Anne Rabbitte yesterday and it's hoped the service will operate 48 weeks per year.
Local parents highlighted to the Minister the lack of an overnight care facility in the county during her visit to Longford in January.
While a location has yet to be decided, once opened the home will provide support to over 250 families.
Speaking to Shannonside FM Senator Michael Carrigy welcomed the commitment from the Disability Minister.
"Families weren't able to get a break, that respite facility wasn't available and it's much needed.
I'm delighted that the Minister gave support to it when she came to Longford and gave a commitment to parents that we met that it would be put in place and I'm delighted that it is going to happen."
