Magdalene Laundry to Be Converted into Domestic Violence Refuge

Galway Bay Fm
April 15, 2013

http://www.galwaybayfm.ie/news/item/885-magdalene-laundry-to-be-converted-into-domestic-violence-refuge

The former Magdalene laundry site in the city is to be transformed into a domestic violence refuge.

The Sisters of Mercy today handed the keys to the convent at 47 Forster street, behind the former Anglo Irish building, to Cope Galway.

The existing refuge at Waterside house has been unfit for purpose for many years, as it comprises 'bedsit' style accommodation forcing families to live in one large room.

Last year, Waterside House accomodated 100 women and their families but did not have sufficient capacity to accomodate a further 200, who had to be referred elsewhere.

Cope Galway approached the sisters of Mercy who responded by donating the Convent building on a 99 year lease for the benefit of women and children in the city and county.

Contracts are expected to be signed in the next 2 weeks.