Cork charity to take over ownership of historic Charleville ‘Redbrick’ building

A Charleville-based councillor has welcomed the news that Kerry Dairy Ireland is to transfer ownership of the historic Redbrick building in the town to St Joseph’s Foundation.

The agreement between Kerry Dairy Ireland, a division of Kerry Group, and St Joseph’s Foundation marks a significant moment for both organisations as they continue to foster a relationship built on shared values.

St Joseph’s Foundation is renowned for providing a comprehensive range of services for people with intellectual disabilities in the North Cork and South Limerick areas. Kerry Dairy Ireland has been a supporter of the organisation for decades.

Fantastic news

Speaking to The Echo, local Fianna Fáil councillor Ian Doyle described the news as “fantastic for Charleville”.

“It’s fantastic news. Absolutely brilliant,” said Mr Doyle.

“Everybody has been working very hard to get this over the line and it’s fantastic for Charleville and fantastic for St Joseph’s Foundation.

“They have been part and parcel of the fabric of Charleville for over 50 years and this new acquisition and development will further their future for many more years.

“It will have huge advantages for people with disabilities going forward in terms of respite and they have plans to develop their own campus now that they will be able to move into the Redbrick. It will enhance the facilities and service they already provide. It's an iconic building and its natural that it has been given to St Joseph's Foundation."

Mission

Under the new ownership the building will continue to serve the community, aligning with the foundation’s mission to provide and promote the highest standards of care and support to those in need.

CEO of St Joseph’s Foundation, Michael Hegarty, said: “We extend our sincere gratitude to Kerry Dairy Ireland for their vital support in securing the Redbrick in Charleville for St Joseph’s Foundation.

“This partnership, grounded in our mutual commitment to rural Ireland, ensures that our joint efforts will benefit Charleville and the wider region for decades to come.

“This milestone in the history of the foundation allows us to advance a significant project that will enhance services for individuals with disabilities and their families,” Mr Hegarty said.

Kerry Dairy Ireland CEO Pat Murphy said he is “immensely pleased” to see St Joseph’s Foundation become the new custodians of the building.

“Their dedication to enhancing the lives of individuals and families within our community is unparalleled. We are confident that this new chapter will only amplify their remarkable work,” he said.