Crossboyne land handed over to parish

Crossboyne land handed over to parish


Michael Commins

FLORIDA based Monsignor John Delaney has handed over close on an acre of ground as a gift to the church and Crossboyne. The narrow stretch of ground lies between the church and the River Robe and was in the possession of the Delaney family of Farmhill for many years.
Members of the Crossboyne Parish Council were present in the McWilliam Park hotel in Claremorris last Tuesday night where Msgr John officially signed the documents acknowledging the transfer of ownership. He said the gift was in memory of his brother PJ who farmed the family land for many years.
Msgr Delaney, who resides in Fort Lauderdale, recalled some memories from back the years and also some of his early influences in his home parish. He wished the Parish Council well and hoped that they would make good use of the land.
Msgr Dermot Moloney, PP, said this was a “most generous gift” and one which reflected the sense of place and belonging which the Delaney family had always felt with Crossboyne parish. He spoke of the virtues of faith and community which were symbolised by this gift to the parish and which was so much appreciated by all associated with the church community in the region.
Brendan Mellett and Tom Burke, on behalf of the Parish and Community Councils in Crossboyne, joined in the words of thanks Msgr John Delaney. They referred to his long association with the parish and how he had always cherished his roots in Crossboyne during more than four decades of ministry in Florida.
It is expected that members of the Parish Council will discuss options for the use of the land at their next meeting when it is likely than some plans will be formulated for the integration of the land into the current facilities around Crossboyne church.