Church lighting options

The possibility of putting skylights in the side roofs of the church is being investigated by the parish.

Though it isn't yet clear if planners would permit it, the idea is aimed at increasing the natural light in the church, with a view to saving on lighting costs.

"The church badly needs a new lighting system," says Fr Andrew O'Sullivan. "It would cost in the region of €200,000 and there would be ongoing running costs. If we could increase the natural light, these would be significantly reduced."

In the meantime, plans to paint the church have been put on hold, pending rewiring and the new lighting system ... and possibly some major building work if the skylights plan goes ahead.

The church was recently surveyed to make a plan of it, as no original plans were available.

"A lot of churches were built around the same time, and the original plans must have been mislaid," Fr Andrew said.

Brian Byrne.