Last week's annual general meeting of the Lisnaskea-based Friendship and Caring Trust (F.A.C.T.) was themed on respite care, was addressed by Caroline Kelly, an 'independent advocate' for the fairer allocation of greater funding to give short breaks to those who look after people with learning disabilities.

An integral part of the meeting was the launch of a survey carried out by the group which operates the Barnlee and Lee Cottage on the Derrylin Road. F.A.C.T. itself was established in 1990 by friends and parents of people with a learning disability and, as a result, the idea of a 'home from home', Barnlee was decided on.

The home was opened in 1996 and, five years later, Lee Cottage was added and is now home to five residents who are able to live more independently.

The response to the survey reflected a need for more respite (short stay) places.

Referring to the survey, outgoing Chairman Tommy Gunn reported that the committee had brought the case for more respite care to the Sperrin Trust who were not supportive because they had their own plans for respite care. However, Mr Gunn suggested that, with the Trust now amalgamated, 'there is a question mark over their plans'.

But, he noted that the survey had shown that 147 bed nights for respite care at Barnlee/Lee Cottage had not been taken up last year, and he said the committee was insisting on developing 'some sort of service, be it respite, day care or whatever' at Barnlee/Lee Cottage in the next year or two.

On behalf of the Committee, he thanked the staff on their dedication, those who served on the various committees and those working away in the background.

He then formally welcomed Caroline Kelly and Kieran Daly from the independent auditors.

The election of officers and trustees then followed. One Trustee, May O'Donnell had indicated she did not wish to continue for personal reasons.

This year's Committee is as follows - Chairman, Anne Gibson; Vice chairman Tony Brady, Tempo; Secretary Eilish Reihill; Assistant secretary Carmel Maguire.