Parishioners shocked at revelations of developer’s proposal

The Diocese of Galway has reacted angrily to outline proposals for the redevelopment of Eyre Square – which would involve the demolition of St Patrick’s Church – saying it has had absolutely no discussions with developers.

The Administrator, Fr Michael McLoughlin – who is overseeing the running of the Diocese since the resignation of Bishop Drennan – has confirmed to this newspaper that a letter will be sent to the City Council outlining that no permission was given for the church to be included in any plans.

Shocked parishioners learned of the ‘vision’ in last week’s Galway City Tribune – the Comer Group and McHale Group made a submission under the Draft City Development Plan for the creation of a new Eyre Square East Quarter.

The outline of their “suggested masterplan” includes a new public square built around the original 1840s St Patricks Church, and the demolition and re-housing of the 1960s St Patrick’s in a new building.

However, Fr McLoughlin said the Diocese will be writing to the Council to inform it “that this submission has over-stepped the mark”.

“I am amazed at the level of hurt it has caused people. I was taking calls on Friday, over the weekend and on Monday and Tuesday about it,” he said.

A Diocesan Administrator is precluded from making “any innovations” in the Diocese – any proposal from developers in relation to any church property could not be considered until a new bishop is appointed next year.

For more on the Eyre Square redevelopment story, see this week’s Galway City Tribune