The Office of Public Works has commenced restoration work at the mediaeval Franciscan Friary in Ennis.
Once completed, the abbey will be open to the public with guided tours provided. This part of the country has many archaeological sites of significance, but as John Mahony explains the Franciscan friary at Ennis has been prioritised for restoration and conservation because,
It's a very important monument architecturally and historically.
Architect Paul McMahon at the OPW maintains that up to now the wealth of native mediaeval craftsmanship here has not been fully appreciated. This restoration project will show that the friary at Ennis is,
The largest and the most impressive of the Franciscan friaries in Ireland.
Skilled craftsmen working on the restoration project include stonemason Paddy Conroy. He gains much job satisfaction from his work, as
It will be here for coming generations.
While the OPW (formerly called The Commissioners of Public Works) have been guardians of the Abbey since 1882, they have only acquired the site in recent years. This has given them the opportunity to carry out scientific conservation of the monument and prepare it for public access.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 12 March 1984. The reporter is Michael Walsh.
