Bishop pays tribute as Roman House closes

The Bishop of Cork and Ross paid tribute last night to the family behind a religious store which has closed after being part of the city’s fabric for 60 years.

Roman House on North Main St — one of Munster’s largest religious stationery suppliers, which also sold religious items — was established by Gay Fehily, and run recently by his daughter Diane.

It closed on Thursday with the loss of 12 jobs.

Just received confirmation that Roman House on North Main Street has closed with the loss of 12 jobs. #Cork #Jobs pic.twitter.com/ZkPIYKQDci

— 96fm Opinion Line (@OpinionLine96) January 9, 2015

“Everyone appreciated the kindness and welcome of the staff,” Bishop John Buckley said.

“They always had a great variety of religious objects and symbols, many by Irish artists.”

Photographer Tony O’Connell said Roman House was one of the “backbones” of the street.

“It was a household name. It was a great shop and it’s sad to see it go,” he said.

“I feel there will be a few more closures to follow unless something is done.”

Sad to see a #Cork institution Roman House on North Main Street closing it's doors today pic.twitter.com/r22pqUT7re

— Cllr.Finbarr Harrington (@HarringtonFinb) January 9, 2015

The Maher’s Sport outlet nearby is also due to close later this month. Its boss, Tommy Maher, said his Oliver Plunkett St branch is staying open, and he plans to open a showroom at his Little Island warehouse for sport and gym equipment.

Parking costs in the city must be addressed, he said.

Northside councillor Tony Fitzgerald said a retail strategy is needed to support businesses in the area.