Hostel for homeless Defence Force veterans in Cobh

On Sunday 3rd October, the Rector of Cobh and Glanmire Union of Parishes, the Rev. Paul Arbuthnot, attended the opening of Brú na Farraige, a hostel and advice centre for homeless Defence Force veterans.

left to right: Fr Desmond Campion, Naval Service Chaplain; Fr Tom McDermott, Administrator of Cobh Cathedral; Revd Paul Arbuthnot, Rector of Cobh and Glanmire Union of Parishes

The hostel is located in Harbour Row, Cobh, and will provide a safe and secure environment for veterans experiencing difficulties in their transition back into civilian life. The hostel has five bedrooms and was brought to fruition by The Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen (Óglaigh Náisúnta na hÉireann), also known as ONE.

Together with Fr Tom McDermott, the Administrator of Cobh Cathedral, the Revd Paul Arbuthnot blessed the new hostel. The development was opened by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, Simon Coveney TD.

The Revd Paul Arbuthnot said:

This hostel is a most welcome addition to the town of Cobh, and will provide much needed support to those Defence Force veterans who have given so much to Ireland.