Locals looking to raise almost €500,000 for Gurranabraher church roof repairs

A MAJOR effort to raise almost half a million euros to repair the roof on the Church of the Ascension in Gutrranabraher has begun.

The Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Tony Fitzgerald helped officially launch the campaign which has already raised €80,000 towards the total €460,000 needed.

The Ascension church has served the people of Gurranabraher and Churchfield for almost 63 years. 

This church, with its illuminated cross, is now facing the biggest struggle of its existence. Its roof needs total replacement. 

The consultant engineers involved have warned: “If the work is not tackled immediately the extent of damage will increase along with the cost of the work – and pose health and safety issues.”

Secretary of the finance committee, Phelim Collins said they have already raised €50,000 and a further  €30,000 has been donated by other parishes throughout the diocese.

He thanked the Lord Mayor and the Bishop of Cork John Buckley for helping to launch the fundraising effort in City Hall.

"A number of events will take place over the coming months and years to raise funds which we hope the public will support," Phelim said.

Letters have also been sent to 2,000 homes throughout the parish asking for assistance.

Donations for roof repairs can be made at the Parish Office or they can be lodged directly into:

Ascension Church Building Fund A/c AIB Bank IBAN: IE65 AIBK 934194 32642064