We, the undersigned parishioners of Lower Killeavy and members of the wider community, call for a pause on any proposed sale or transfer of the lands on Quarter Road, Camlough, bequeathed by the late Mrs Doyle, until clear information has been provided and meaningful community consultation has taken place.

Mrs Doyle’s Will states that the lands are held “in trust for the sole and absolute benefit of the Parish and parishioners of Lower Killeavy” and refers to their use by the Church for the benefit of parishioners, including purposes such as building a church or erecting a community centre.

This generous gift of approximately ten acres has long been understood locally as an opportunity to provide a lasting benefit for present and future generations.

Camlough Community Association previously worked towards developing a community centre on the site and secured planning permission for that purpose. That history deserves proper consideration in any decision about the future of the lands.

We are concerned about the possibility of a sale or transfer proceeding before the community has received a clear explanation of the proposals or an opportunity to be heard.

We recognise that the trustees must act within the powers and responsibilities established by the Will and applicable law. We ask them to explain how any proposed sale or transfer would fulfil the purposes of the trust, and why it would be preferable to retaining the lands for parish and community use.

We respectfully request:

1. Confirmation of whether a sale or transfer is being considered, has been agreed, or is already subject to a binding commitment, including the relevant dates and who is responsible for the decision.
2. A clear explanation of the powers relied upon, the reasons for the proposal and how it would benefit the Parish and parishioners of Lower Killeavy.
3. An explanation of the consideration given to retaining the lands, the community centre proposal, the planning permission previously obtained and other realistic parish or community uses.
4. Confirmation of whether independent valuation and appropriate professional advice have been obtained, how any proposed disposal method was selected, and how appropriate value for the trust would be secured.
5. Confirmation of how any actual or potential conflicts of interest have been identified and managed, including any relevant connection between a proposed purchaser and those involved in the decision.
6. A clear explanation of how any sale proceeds would be held, protected and used to fulfil the purposes of the trust.
7. A public meeting at which parishioners and the wider community can discuss the proposals with the trustees before any irreversible decision is taken.
8. We request a written response within 28 days of the trustees receiving this petition. Where information cannot properly be disclosed, we ask that the reason be explained and as much meaningful information as possible be provided.

Pending that response and an opportunity for community engagement, we ask the trustees to refrain from entering into any binding agreement or taking any further irreversible step towards a sale or transfer. If a binding commitment already exists, we ask that its status and implications be explained promptly.

This petition makes no allegation of wrongdoing. It expresses our shared concern that a gift of lasting significance to Lower Killeavy should be administered with openness, careful consideration of community needs and respect for Mrs Doyle’s expressed intentions.

By signing, you support these requests for clear information, meaningful community consultation and a pause before any further irreversible steps are taken.

Organised by Camlough Community Association.