The college, however, was after a short time suppressed by the Government, and the property was confiscated and handed over to Trinity College Dublin. For some years he laboured in his native Diocese of Waterford and Lismore, mainly engaged in teaching catechism to children.
The college ceased operations quickly after being taken over by the government, and its assets were handed over to Trinity College Dublin. He spent some time in his home diocese of Waterford and Lismore, mainly focusing on instructing children in catechism.