Carrick-on-Suir residents celebrate Mass at town's former workhouse cemetery

Matt Kirby, John Walsh, Micky Norris and Emily Comerford were among the large congregation at St Francis Paupers’ Cemetery Mass in Carrick-on-Suir. Pictures Anne Marie Magorrian

An estimated 100 people joined Fr Paul Waldron in celebrating the annual Mass at St Francis Paupers’ Cemetery in Carrick-on-Suir on Tuesday, August 6.

Fr Waldron, PP of St Nicholas & Faugheen Parish, was assisted by local residents who recited readings and prayers of the faithful at the ceremony that was blessed with beautiful weather.

The Mass for the Carrick-on-Suir Workhouse burial ground is also for the residents of nearby St John’s Terrace. Local residents who passed away in recent times including the late Mary Power, Tony Kelly and Jason Kerwick, were specially remembered as was the late Niall Hogan, whose anniversary takes place at this time of year.

Renowned Carrick-on-Suir writer and poet Michael Coady from nearby Cláirín, who died earlier this year, was also remembered at the Mass.

The St Christopher Folk Choir and musicians performed at the ceremony and greatly added to the whole atmosphere.
John Connolly, Chairman of Carrick-on-Suir Workhouse Burial Ground Restoration Committee, said the front doorstep of the former Carrick Workhouse which stood on the present day site of Treacy Park will be moved from Davin Park grounds to St Francis Cemetery and a suitable plaque will be placed at its front.

He noted the 34 oak trees planted around the cemetery in the past few years are now well established while the track to the cemetery will reopen once the new Cláirín rail footbridge is completed and opened later this month.

Mr Connolly said all at the Mass remarked on how peaceful St Francis Paupers’ Cemetery is considering its proximity to the outskirts of the town.

When the Carrick-on-Suir bypass goes ahead, he said the bypass road will be on the other side of the top boundary going through Brian Phelan’s field and will result in more noise.

He also pointed out that plans are being considered for the council owned field outside the cemetery. Carrick Lions Club plan to plant several varieties of trees and develop biodiversity areas in this area. “When completed, this will be an invaluable resource for all students in the schools in the area and beyond,” he added.

Check out more photographs from St Francis Paupers' Cemetery annual Mass in this week's edition of The Nationalist now on sale in local shops. 

Pictured below: Megan Waters with her baby daughter Taylor Meaney, John Waters and Mai Waters, who is seated, at the annual Mass at St Francis Paupers' Cemetery