Clare Champion, Friday, 9th February 2001

Behind you all the way: Ministers Noel Dempsey and Sile De Valera in pensive mood at the official opening of Sixmilebridge Library as Community activist David Deighan makes his address. Photograph: John Kelly

A special occasion in the proud history of Sixmilebridge was given the ministerial seal of approval last Friday when the Minister for the Environment and Local Government, Noel Dempsey, officiallly declared the community's new library open.

Sixmilebridge, which has the distinction of being one of Clare's fastest growing areas, has this new facility based in the old Church of Ireland building. Through the hard work of a dedicated local committee, the Clare Library Services and FÁS, the project at Kilfinaghty Church has become a reality over the past five years.

Those present for the library opening included Clare County Council leaders, public representatives both local and national, FÁS Regional Manager, Christy Cooney, County Librarian, Noel Crowley, the Chairman of Clare County Council, Sean Hillery, Arts Minister, Sile de Valera as well as representatives of the Church of Ireland who donated the Church.

Minister Dempsey, in highlighting the importance of the library services, praised all those involved in the project and expressed delight that his department was able to contribute financially to this latest success story for the county. "The project of saving this church building started in 1996 when people came together on a voluntary basis and initiated the Church Conservation Project. I understand that some £370,000 was raised to fund the building and conservation costs. I would like to acknowledge the assistance of FÁS and the many private individuals whose generous contributions helped bring this project to fruition. As Minister, I am pleased to have been able to approve a contribution of £150,000 from my Department towards the fitting out and bookstock for the library", the Minister said.

Minister for the Environment, Noel Dempsey, T.D., with County Librarian, Noel Crowley, at the launch of Clare County Library's Internet access Service at de Valera Library, Ennis. Photograph: John Kelly

A key element in ensuring the success of the project came with the input of FÁS, Regional Director, Christy Cooney, was quick to acknowledge the work of all those people involved. "We would not have achieved any of our objectives without the help of Clare County Council, County Librarian, Noel Crowley, the chairperson of the hardworking committee, David Deighan and Eilis O'Nuallain, the architect who closely monitored this restoration", Mr. Cooney said. "We congratulate everyone on their commitment and generosity in providing so much help. This is a great example of community spirit. The conservation of this building will reinstate a local landmark. The location of this library in the restored church will provide a centre for learning, study, exhibitions, special events and research in the village and provide a library service for the wider community", he added. The local committee that spearheaded the project was chaired by David Deighan and other members were Tim Crowe, Secretary, Edwin Bailey, Treasurer, Noel Crowley, County Librarian, Ger Dollard, Clare County Council Finance Officer as well as Eilis O'Nuallain, Vincent Delaney, Rita Higgins, Angela McNamara, Fr. Albert McDonnell and Joan Reddan.  

"The project created a dynamic for enterprise and development in the community of Sixmilebridge and the marvellous facility illustrates that if there's a will, there's a way", said David Deighan.