Gardaí investigate burglary at Limerick building being converted into accommodation

GARDAÍ are investigating a burglary at the old convent site in Kilfinane, which is being converted into social housing accommodation.

A spokesperson told the Limerick Leader that the incident is believed to have happened some time between Saturday morning last and Monday morning (between July 20 and 22).

Gardaí said there was criminal damage at the property and the Limerick Leader understands that some areas of the building which are not part of the new build, were spray painted during the incident.

A garda spokesperson said: “A number of items have been seized for technical examination. Investigations are ongoing.”

Newly-elected Fine Gael councillor Tommy O'Sullivan said it was very disappointing to see such a building, with deep historical meaning, attacked in this way.

“This building has educated generations of people in the town and it's disappointing considering all that the convent stood for,” Cllr O'Sullivan said.

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He added that this raises the point of whether or not more services and outlets for young people are needed in Kilfinane and perhaps this should be explored. However, it is not known what age the perpetrators of the burglary are.

Speaking about how housing is being enhanced in Kilfinane, Cllr O'Sullivan said that 21 new housing units are being developed.

This includes housing behind Murphy's shop in the village, nine apartments in the old convent and another two in the town - one house currently being finished and another is being renovated.