Relief for couples and community as Aherlow House re-opens – McGrath

Independent TD Mattie McGrath has welcomed the news that Aherlow House Hotel is set to re-open its doors next month. Deputy McGrath was speaking after it was confirmed that Dublin Hotelier Adrian Shanagher has stepped in and bought the Hotel as well as agreeing to honour all previous commitments which couples had entered into in good faith:

“This is a magnificent turnaround for the Hotel and the local community, not to mention the many dozens of distressed and anxious couples who thought their wedding plans were irreparably damaged.

12729346_1119039604797154_834297248871975912_n

I had been in direct contact with the receiver at Grant Thornton Mr Gearoid Costelloe who today assured me that an imminent announcement was being planned.

Indeed I want to welcome the sensitivity and sense of urgency displayed by the receiver and his team in this particular case. It is perhaps rather unfortunate that we do not hear of more examples like this.

That the assurances have been honoured and that my own interventions have been productive is welcome news indeed.

I have spoken to many of the couples involved and have committed to making myself 100% available in whatever further capacity is required.

The other main thing here is that those who had previously been employed will also be offered their jobs back.

Overall this is a great outcome to what has been a difficult and challenging time for all involved,” concluded Deputy McGrath.