Archdeacon Chris Long, James Grace (builder), Michael Tierney (architect), Bishop Michael Burrows, Tom Bermingham (WLD), Cllr. Barbara Ann Murphy (chairperson Enniscorthy Municipal District) and Robbie Syme pictured at the formal re-opening of The Church Institute, Chuch St., Enniscorthy. Pic: John Walsh
THERE WAS an air of celebration in Enniscorthy on Thursday as the Church Institute finally re-opened its doors.
Minister Paul Kehoe, Archdeacon Chris Long and Chairperson of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr. Barbara Anne Murphy were among the distinguished guests at the long-awaited re-opening of the building, situated on the corner of Castle Street and Church Street, which was damaged by fire in 2003.
Church Institute trustee Robert Syme said there was a real sense of joy that the building was finally able to be used by the community again following a “wonderful refurbishment”.
Mr. Syme reminded those gathered at the re-opening that the Church Institute opened its doors to the public in 1863, and was worth the equivilent of €1.3 million today.
He explained the red-brick building was originally used by the Y.M.C.A but gradually used by various groups in the community, and he was devastated when the fire over ten years ago closed its doors.
“I grew up in Enniscorthy and used the Church Institute in my youth, so it was such a shame to see it fall into disrepair,” he told The Echo. “It is fantastic to see it up and running again!”
The restoration took place over the past four years and cost up to €500,000 – a culmination of funds gathered from the fire insurance, Wexford Local Development, the local council and the Church of Ireland.
Kathy Dunne, Vanessa Leech and Lillian McKenna pictured at the formal re-opening of The Church Institute, Chuch St., Enniscorthy. Pic: John Walsh
Mr. Syme said it is now a beautiful, modern building, complete with a lift and top of the range facilities.
“It’s now open for use for anyone in the community, as long as they’re a bona fide organisation with insurance,” he commented.
He said he believes the re-opening will “restore some life” to Enniscorthy and it is hugely positive for the town.
Full story in this week’s Echo
