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	Bishop to Sell NCRd Property Limerick Post [Ireland] June 7, 2007 http://www.limerickpost.ie/dailynews.elive?id=7965&category=Daily-Thu The most important land sale ever in Limerick, is how one local auctioneer described Bishop Donal Murray's NCRd. residence, comprising over six acres, and to be sold by tender on July 4.With developers and builders queueing for suitable landbanks, it is expected that the guide price of 20m euro for Kilmoyle, in one of Limerick's most fashionable areas, will be easily surpassed. A four bed house on half-an-acre, close to the Bishop's Palace, was sold by Rooneys last year for 4.5m euro. Kilmoyle, a stylish Victorian residence, set in landscaped gardens occupies 6.5 acres, and a spokesperson for the bishop has confirmed a guide price of 20million euro had been set. One auctioneer described the figure mentioned as 'conservative', citing a price of 30million as not beyond a possibility. The property was vacated by Bishop Murray over 18 months ago, when he made the decision to relocate to a smaller house in the Annacotty area. Kilmoyle, is a protected structure and with a number of other equally imposing dwellings surrounded by high walls, receives special mention in Limerick City Council's area study for the North Circular Road. It is believed the house and grounds were donated to the Diocese by a local farmer about 50 years ago. One of the city's most prized locations, it is expected that the sale will attract developers from all over the country. Recent developments on the North Circular Road have aroused some considerable controversy, with local councillors warning against over-development of the salubrious area. Diocesan secretary, Fr Paul Finnerty, confirms that proceeds from the sale will provide a capital injection to a fund that provides for the needs of retired and ill priests "Provision has also to be made for a purpose built Diocesan Archive at the Diocesan Offices in place of that at Kilmoyle, and consideration will be given as to how the diocese will meet its residual debt in relation to St John's Cathedral conservation project". He told the Limerick Post that no part of the proceeds will be used to fund compensation packages for claims against clerical sexual abuse. Bishop Murray stressed that proceeds of the sale of Kilmoyle will help finance projects which will assist the Diocese make a creative response to the challenges that it will face in the coming years. Some of those outlined include: services for disadvantaged youth: the employment of lay pastoral workers and catechists: diocesan pastoral centre: ongoing formation for priests: increased support for sick and retired priests: increased employment of lay people in administrative support for parishes, etc.
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