Sr Lucas sent a message to Michael O’Leary – CEO, Ryanair – Email Address that said:
Dear Michael,
I have been told that you are quite passionate about preserving landscape and heritage in Ireland.
I am a member of the Holy Faith Sisters. The order has owned a most beautiful property in Kilcoole since 1894 but now wishes to sell it on the open market in the Spring of 2017.
The house was built in 1782 by a former lord mayor of Dublin (1782 - 1783), John. The sisters bought the house and lands from Walter a great grandnephew of Mary who was John's wife. The house is a pretty but by no means grand house, and has some interesting features. There are two walled gardens, one of which has a little stream running through it as well as a tea house. The site comprises approximately 50 acres commanding magnificent views of the surrounding landscape - including a largely pristine view of the Sugarloaf.
There are two sisters who have been living in the house from where they run a centre. Luisne. We formed a company, The Luisne Foundation Company Ltd, which now has charitable status. This was with a view to expanding our services into the corporate sector, becoming a centre for integral spirituality and having the status necessary to receive a promised donation of part of the property from the Sisters. Unfortunately, this offer of a donation was withdrawn so that the property could be sold in its entirety. Our fear is that a property developer will buy it. The Luisne Foundation Company would love to buy the house and land but do not have the money to do so. Of course, if it goes on the open market, there is no way we could compete. We had a valuation of the property and, because it is currently zoned for agriculture, the value is around €700,000. This is a huge amount for us, but probably fairly negligible for you. Therefore, I am wondering - as a last resort - would you see your way to helping us out? You are welcome to come to view the property, meet us and learn more about the Luisne project - or, of course, ignore this email. This is a sacred healing landscape and the house is an iconic listed building. We and all the people who have come here over the years (we began the centre in 2004) are very upset at the possible loss of such a treasure. We do not view this property as a commercial commodity but as unique heritage and landscape worth preserving for future generations. I know we have a housing crisis in Ireland but I think unique landscapes such as here should be preserved.
I would be grateful for an acknowledgement of this email, overjoyed if you become interested in our plight and ecstatic if you can help us.
With every blessing and good wish,
Sr. Lucas
