Concerns have been raised over the future of the Middletown Centre for Autism after staff were instructed to work from home indefinitely this week.
Armagh SDLP councillor Thomas O’Hanlon has written to Education Ministers Paul Givan MLA and Helen McEntee TD seeking urgent assurances that the cross-border facility will not be closed or relocated.
The centre, situated just yards from the border in Middletown, is widely regarded as a flagship for autism support and a symbol of north-south cooperation. It provides vital services to families and educators across the island.
Councillor O’Hanlon described the decision to vacate the site as “deeply troubling”, particularly as the reasons given – health and safety concerns, including issues with the access bridge – are not new.
“The centre has long been recognised as a beacon of excellence in autism support and a powerful symbol of what cross-border and all-island cooperation can achieve,” he said.
“Its location in Middletown is not only strategic but emblematic of its mission to serve families and educators across the island. This sudden decision to vacate the site is deeply troubling. These issues have been known for years. So why now? Why the abrupt move to remote working?”
The councillor has asked both ministers to confirm whether they were informed in advance of the decision and to provide “a clear and unequivocal assurance” that there are no plans to close the centre or move its services to Belfast, Dublin or elsewhere.
Highlighting the millions invested in the centre by both jurisdictions, Cllr O’Hanlon said it would be “a betrayal” to dismantle or relocate the facility.
“Just weeks ago it was visited by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD, who left the facility blown away with its work and has talked up the endless possibilities for its future growth and expansion. Families from every corner of Ireland rely on its expertise. Any attempt to quietly dismantle or relocate this service would be a betrayal of the vision and investment that built it.”
He is also demanding a full explanation of the rationale behind the current situation, along with a timeline for when the Middletown site will be fully operational again.
“This is not just a local issue – it’s an island-wide concern,” he added. “The centre’s location is key to its success. Its presence in Middletown is not incidental – it is essential. I am calling on both Ministers to act swiftly and publicly reaffirm their commitment to the centre’s future in Middletown.”
