In the evening of Sunday 26th May, the fateful day that Fr Murphy first encountered the Yeoman that sparked the Battle of Oulart Hill, Minister James Browne and Cathaoirleach Pip Breen officially opened the restoration works to his cottage at the Fr. Murphy Centre in Boolavogue.
Speaking about the works, Padriag Sinnott Chair of the Fr Murphy Centre said that the condition of the cottage’s roof had deteriorated to an extent that the building was no longer accessible. Funding was sourced through Creative Ireland’s 225 Commemoration of the 1798 Uprising to complete the restoration. A new timber frame was installed to support the reed thatch that is traditional to Co. Wexford’s thatched buildings. Padraig Sinnott thanked those involved in bringing about the renovation with special mention to Catherine McLoughlin, former Heritage Officer with Wexford County Council.
Cathaoirleach Pip Breen paid tribute to the Fr. Murphy Centre Committee and the work that is done on a voluntary basis to keep the Centre open. “I would like to thank the people of my home Parish for their support in keeping this wonderful heritage project alive.” Indicating other buildings the Cathaoirleach noted that there is still work to be done and would be working with his fellow councillors in the district to secure funding for those works.
Minister James Browne also thanked the Committee the local councillors and officials of Wexford County Council their work in bringing the renovation project to completion. He noted the support of Creative Ireland in funding the initiative and thanked Minister Heather Humpreys.
The Minister and Cathaoirleach then cut the ribbon that was tied between two pikes in front of Fr. Murphy’s cottage door and a rousing rendition of Boolavogue concluded the event.