The Freemasons, regarded by many as secretive, opened their doors to the public in Limerick yesterday, during the introduction of the ancient society's new headquarters in the city.
Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea performed the official opening of the €750,000 North Munster Masonic Centre in the shadow of historic King John's Castle on King's Island.
The first masonic lodge opened in Limerick in 1732, but records suggest that they have been active in the city since the early 1500s.
The centre caters for around 250 Freemasons in Limerick, Clare, Tipperary and north Kerry. Until recently the Freemasons met in rented premises on O'Connell Street, but following a Fás-assisted restoration project they now have a permanent home, which will also be available to local community groups for meetings.
Grand master of north Munster Geoffrey Ashton conceded yesterday that much of their activity was carried out in private but said great efforts had been made to have a more open society.
"Freemasonry is not a secret society, but it is intensely private. As an institution we are frequently criticised by people who know nothing about us. While our policy in the past has been a dignified silence, it is on occasions like this that we take the opportunity to talk publicly about our activities and good deeds," said the retired banker.
"We pride ourselves on being a good community neighbour. We now have a public museum and a community centre, which we are anxious to share with local community groups," he added.
Mr Ashton also said that local members were drawn from all faiths and all walks of life and pointed out that Daniel O'Connell joined the lodge in Limerick in 1800.
He also indicated that a small number of members were unemployed and rebutted suggestions that membership was a guarantee of a successful professional career.