A new €6.3m civic centre and library has been officially opened in Virginia, Co Cavan.
The development of the Virginia Civic, Cultural and Library Services centre has taken place around the historic Ramor theatre which opened in 1999 in a deconsecrated church.
The neighbouring parochial house has been renovated into a box office, lobby and bar area for the theatre as well as office space, and an interactive tourist information centre.
The new centre also includes a multi-purpose performance and meeting space and a new civic plaza for outdoor events.
As well as an extensive range of books, the new library also have a sensory toy library and computer suite. It will be open to the public from 10am next Tuesday.
The project was delivered with €4.7 million in funding from the Rural Regeneration Development fund through the Department of Rural and Community development.
A further €1.59 million was provided by Cavan County Council.
Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Councillor Philip Brady hailed today as a "historic day for Virginia", saying it was one of the most significant investments in cultural infrastructure the county has seen.
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD attended the opening and said the centre would play a key role in the day to day life of the community.
"Above all this will be a focal point for the community, a place to bring people together, and a place that will attract visitors to the area," she said.
"It is a place for everyone, from our youngest children rght up to our senior citizens.
"I'm delighted to have been able to support this project with a €4.7m investment under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund, and it’s great to be here today to see first-hand and celebrate the results of so many years hard work."
Cavan County Council’s Chief Executive Tommy Ryan said the centre was a "once-in-a-generation, landmark facility."
During the opening today, Minister Humphreys read "The Gruffalo" to senior infants from St Mary’s NS Virginia.
