Former convent in Limerick town welcomes new residents

AN OLD CONVENT in the heart of a Limerick village has been transformed into residential units and is temporarily housing refugees.

The former Convent of Mercy in Cappamore was home to the Sisters of Mercy for over 120 years before it closed down in 2019.

The convent was left vacant for over three years but construction has now been completed to house the new residents.

Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) stated they have leased the former convent in Cappamore to provide multi-occupancy temporary accommodation for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) such as those fleeing from Ukraine.

“The former convent is now home to 19 beneficiaries who are beginning to settle in well in their new surrounds,” a spokesperson said.

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Last week a number of refugees from Ukraine were the first to be welcomed to the community as they were shown into their new home.

There will be more arrivals on the way in the coming weeks according to Fianna Fáil councillor for Cappamore-Kilmallock, Martin Ryan.

“Approximately 26 to 27 people can be accommodated there,” Cllr Ryan said.

“Some of the local representatives were invited into the convent last week and were given a presentation on the unit and how it has been developed and presented for use.

“It’s looking nice and tidy and it’s a welcome use to a building that was idle and was a part of the community for so long,” Cllr Ryan added.

CCTV cameras have been installed at the convent and there is now 24-hour security on the premises.

There will also be a manager on site every day to help coordinate all the ongoing work.

The newly-converted convent is also believed to be a benefit to the local economy with local businesses seeing the greatest benefit from Cappamore’s latest residents.