Minister Dara Calleary officially opened the newly refurbished St. Kieran’s Community Hall in Johnstown on Monday, marking a significant investment in community infrastructure and local development.
The refurbishment project, with a total investment of €410,877, was delivered through funding from the Community Centres Investment Fund, Kilkenny County Council, and the continued support and commitment of the local community. Works included essential upgrades to the building’s roof and external walls, supported by €94,020 under the 2024 Community Centres Investment Fund.
Speaking at the official opening, Minister Calleary said: “Today marks an important milestone here in Johnstown as the refurbished St. Kieran’s Community Hall is opened following enhancement works. These works, totalling over €94,000, have improved the fabric of the building, ensuring its continued role in community life in the area. Since 2022, over €280,000 has been provided to this facility under the Community Centre Investment Fund. I am delighted to see that the numbers in the community using this facility have increased by over 50%, demonstrating that this was money well spent.”
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh, described the project as a testament to the strength and spirit of the Johnstown community. “It is a great honour and pleasure to officially open this wonderful facility,” she said. “This project truly reflects the pride, commitment, and shared vision of the people of Johnstown. It stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through partnership, cooperation, and community determination.”
Cllr. Cavanagh paid particular tribute to the Johnstown Town Team, elected in 2021, whose leadership and dedication were instrumental in bringing the project to fruition. She also highlighted the importance of the Health Check Survey, which received over 580 responses and clearly identified the refurbishment of the hall as a key community priority. “People wanted more than just a building – they wanted a focal point where the community could once again come together. Today, we see that vision realised,” she said.
Chair of the Johnstown Town Team, Fiona O’ Suileabhain said “We are proud to say as a small rural community we now have our community building restored and functional and it is very busy – it is the meeting hub for all the Community activities for all ages in the community for now and for years to come.”
The refurbished hall will serve as a central hub for community life, hosting cultural, social, and recreational activities for all age groups. The project has also carefully preserved the building’s historic character, including the restoration of the iconic balcony dating back to the 1920s. A strong emphasis has been placed on accessibility and inclusion, ensuring the facility is welcoming to all members of the community. New volunteer groups and committee members, including young families, are already playing an active role in shaping its future use.
Cllr. Cavanagh concluded by congratulating everyone involved. “This hall is once again a vibrant space where people can gather, learn, and celebrate together. It will play a vital role in the life of Johnstown for many years to come.”
The official opening marks not only the completion of a major refurbishment project, but also the beginning of a new chapter for St. Kieran’s Community Hall as a thriving centre of community life.
