Fine Gael Kildare South TD Martin Heydon has today (Tuesday) said that Housing Minister Simon Coveney has confirmed funding of €515,000 towards the development of homeless accommodation at the site of the former Dominicans Priory in Athy.
“Following his recent visit to view the former Dominican site at Athy, Minister Coveney has confirmed to me today that funding of €515,000 has been approved for the development of 8 short term homeless units in the former Priory, to include site costs. The funding will be used by Kildare County Council to complete the renovation of the priory into 8 short term homeless units for families.
“I am advised by senior Kildare County Council officials that they are now ready to proceed, with works to commence this week. The units when completed in the near future, will be managed by the Peter McVerry Trust to directly alleviate homelessness in South Kildare.
“This development is part of an exciting larger plan to develop the multi-use site of the old Dominicans. It is envisaged that the site can include community, recreational, sporting, arts and housing elements when completed which will add greatly to the facilities available in Athy.