This article is from page 4 of the 2006-03-07 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 4 JPG
ENNIS Town Council wants representatives of the town’s different religious organisations to meet with them, in order to identify suitable locations for places of worship.
In response to a motion tabled by Councillor Taiwoo Matthew (Ind), the council stated that it did not have in its possession land for this purpose nor was it in a position to make land available for such a project.
But the groups involved could engage in pre-planning consultation to identify suitable sites, prior to acquisition.
Such consultation would be beneficial to them in advance of making any planning application development.
Cllr Matthew requested that Ennis Town Council “provide a zoned, designated area of town where religious organisations can have a permanent place of worship without disturbing the public or the public being a disturbance to them.”
Cllr Matthew stated that many religious groups were currently using inadequate locations, in order to carry out their activities of worship.
“These groups presently carry out their activities of worship in rented premises/areas that are not designated for these activities, thereby causing discomfort to both the public and themselves.”
He added that the lack of a suitable venue for worship meant that many followers of religious faiths had been unable to carry out ceremonies important to their faith.
Cllr Donal O’Beara (GP) had earlier asked why the issues that were raised at last month’s meeting of Ennis Town Council concerning the development of a five-year plan for the management of the town’s graveyards, were not brought to the attention of the Council’s equality officer. The plan concerned the current and future needs of the Ennis and environs population.
“Given that we have the officer, I feel it is important that we be seen to be doing something proactive and that the person is actively interpreting the social trends that are emerging.
“The issues that were raised in the discussion should be raised with the equality officer of Clare County Council.”
Cllr Tommy Brennan (Ind) said, “Ennis has never refused the burial to anyone of any religion.
“It is a Christian burial ground and work to extend the graveyard is already being carried out.
“No-one has ever been left overground and there won’t be in the future.”