History of St. Joseph’s Education Centre

Introduction

This section will briefly look at the history of the centre, its inception and the major events which have influenced its growth and development.

1973

• T.R.I.A.L.1 Maurer’s Lane (Travellers Rehabilitation Industrial Aid Limited)
• The centre had its origins as a drop in centre and in 1973 a limited company (T.R.I.A.L.) was formed and its purpose was to deliver a training programme for unemployed teenage Travellers.
• The founders were four members of the Traveller Settlement Committee and four professional people: a lawyer, an accountant, an engineer and a banker. Combat Poverty Agency was one of the board members, as were the Catholic Church, Clare Social Services and some local employers.
• By 1978, it was jointly managed by AnCO (FÁS) and the VEC. Paddy Houlihan was the first manager.