by Alan Jacques
A LIMERICK councillor has claimed that mourners are “taking their lives in their hands” when visiting the cemetery adjoining the old abbey in Castletown Conyers.
The comment from Fine Gael councillor Liam Galvin was made after a local deputation told council members from Newcastle West municipal district at their monthly meeting that the site, adjoining the old abbey, is a “healthy and safety” risk.
According to local man Dennis Cagney, the walls of the historic landmark are starting to collapse.
Mr Cagney told council members that trees growing on top of walls are affecting the building’s structural integrity. He also pointed out that there is a risk to graves and head stones, inside and outside the abbey, from falling debris.
The local community is calling on the Council to commence a project to prevent further degradation of the abbey and for footpaths and lighting to be installed at the cemetery.
“The roots of the trees are the only thing holding the building together,” Mr Cagney claimed.
“It’s only a matter of time before there is a serious incident,” he warned.
Fine Gael councillor Liam Galvin pointed out that the abbey is unique to Castletown and said its adjoining graveyard is “very active”.
“Unfortunately, those going in and out of the cemetery are taking their lives in their hands,” he said.
Cllr Galvin would not accept the Council’s explanation that funding was not currently available for the “substantial infrastructural works” required. He called for funding to be made available on health and safety grounds.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” he told the council executive.
Fianna Fail councillor Francis Foley insisted that the abbey needed to be “preserved”.
“It’s local heritage and its important that it is maintained,” said Cllr Foley.
Sinn Fein councillor Seamus Browne hailed Castletown as a beautiful part of County Limerick and felt the abbey could be a huge attraction with economic and social dividends to the local community.
Executive archaeologist at Limerick City and County Council, Sarah McCutcheon, revealed that it would cost €125,000 to stabilise the building.
“It’s a testament to those that built it in the 1200s that it has stood so long,” Ms McCutcheon said.
