Sunday 23rd March 2003

Saint Mary’s Church of Ireland, Carrigaline, Co Cork was badly damaged by an accidental fire which seems to have started at the rear of the organ in the Church tower at breakfast time this Sunday, 23rd March, 2003.

The Bishop of Cork, the Right Reverend Paul Colton, joined the Rector – the Reverend David Armstrong – and the churchwardens at the scene at 09.00 a.m.

Afterwards Bishop Colton said:

“In the midst so much human tragedy at this time as a result of the war in Iraq, an accident like this has to be kept in perspective. No one was injured. Nonetheless local communities have great attachment to their churches, and I extend my sincere sympathy to the rector and people of Carrigaline parish.

I am also especially grateful to the Fire Service for their professionalism, as well as to the local community who have already shown generous encouragement and support, including Archdeacon Michael O’Brien who has kindly offered the use of his Church (Church of our Lady and St John, Carrigaline) to the Church of Ireland community.”