Kildare community café needs new home
Piers Cafe in Moone
A COMMUNITY-run café in Kildare is on the lookout for a new home. The lease on Piers café in Moone is due to expire in 2028, according to a local representative.
Newly appointed cathaoirleach Mark Leigh brought forward a motion at the most recent meeting of Athy Municipal District, calling on the council to assist Piers Café in finding a “suitable building to ensure the continuation of this valued community service”.
Senior executive officer Tony Shanahan issued the council’s response, which stated that because the café is a community-run social enterprise, the local authority has contacted the LEADER programme to discuss possible funding supports.
The LEADER programme is a community-led rural development initiative. It is currently running a funding scheme for social enterprises, with 31 July being the deadline for expressions of interest.
Grants of up to €87,000 are available for projects such as fitting out a new premises or upgrading a building, with funding covering up to 75 per cent of eligible costs.
The council’s response indicated that an initial meeting between Piers Café and LEADER has taken place.
Piers café opened in 2018 after the closure of the village post office, which shocked locals at the time. It has been described as an important social hub that helps reduce rural isolation in the community.
Cllr Leigh said the lease will expire in 2028, and that Moone has little else in the village apart from a church. Making the case for the café’s continuation, he emphasised its importance in reducing social isolation.
Cllr Ivan Keatley expressed his support for the motion, noting the lack of a post office or shop in the village. He said it is “vitally important that Kildare County Council do everything they can” to ensure the café remains open.
Mr Shanahan told councillors that he would keep them informed of any government funding that becomes available.
