The Cistercian community at Our Lady of Silence Abbey, Mount Melleray, has confirmed that discussions on a proposed educational and formation initiative involving Ave Maria University have reached an advanced stage.

In a statement, the Cistercians said the proposal has received approval from the University’s Board. However, they stressed that a number of formal steps remain before any final decision is made, and no public announcement has yet been issued.

The Abbey and Ave Maria University said they are committed to ensuring that any future development at Mount Melleray would respect the Abbey’s spiritual character, its life of prayer, and the local community.

Further details will be shared once the remaining processes have been completed.

Separately, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science confirmed that it has not received any communication to date regarding the establishment of Ave Maria University in Ireland.

The Department noted that while institutions based outside Ireland are free to explore the development of campuses here, the use of the title “university” is protected under Irish law.

Under the Universities Act 1997, the term “university” may only be used to describe an educational establishment or facility with the approval of the Minister. The provision is designed to ensure that the public can clearly distinguish between State-regulated universities and other education providers not subject to the same regulatory framework.

No timeline has been indicated for when a final decision on the Mount Melleray proposal may be made.

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