GREEN Skibbereen is to close the doors of CECAS at Myross Wood House on June 30th, but will continue delivering its ​various projects.

Ana Ospina, the managing director of Green Skibbereen, said they will continue to look for ​new premises as their five-year lease expires at the end of June.

The Centre of Excellence for Climate Action and Sustainability was established in August 2021 by the not-for-profit Green Skibbereen.

Many people described CECAS as being ‘ahead of the curve’ because it was a destination for critical conversations about the climate, and many people were taught new skills​ there. Members and volunteers also worked to restore the native woodlands and the historic Myross Wood House.

Green Skibbereen confirmed that the decision to close CECAS was mutually agreed upon with the owners​ of the building, the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC)​, who they thanked for their support and generosity.

Ana Ospina told The Southern Star: ‘We are incredibly sad to be closing CECAS at Moyross Wood House at the end of June. Running CECAS for the past five years has been an amazing experience, with all the highs and lows that come with starting a non-profit in a religious building during a pandemic without any core funding.’

She described the location as ‘idyllic’ and said she hoped it would remain accessible to the public, adding: ‘We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to run this project, which we see as a pilot, demonstrating the need for community-led climate action, and we plan to continue this work in the future.

‘This isn’t goodbye, we are just moving onto a new chapter and we are excited to see where it will lead us.’

The board also issued a statement confirming: ‘The building and grounds, and the protected SAC woodland, have been a source of education, relaxation and connection with nature for thousands of visitors and volunteers.

‘We especially thank the countless staff, volunteers and board members that put toil, tears and sweat into making CECAS happen and running many positive projects and events there.

‘We also thank Fr John, Fr Michael and Mary Kelly, who have worked with us on behalf of MSC since the beginning. We have agreed to terminate our occupation a month before the end of our mutual agreement to give us time to make an organised exit from the building.’

In conclusion, Green Skibbereen said: ‘We are very grateful to everyone who contributed to the project and supported us over the years.

​‘It has been an incredible journey to see what is possible when local people come together with a shared vision.’ Anyone who would like to assist the organisation can email [email protected].