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In 1839 a Poor Law Bill was passed to address the growing levels of poverty throughout Ireland.  The law divided Ireland into 130 Unions, each with its own workhouse and Board of Guardians.  Kilkeel Poor Law Union was established on 29th July 1839 and paved the way for the development of Kilkeel Workhouse. 

William Johnson was a prominent local solicitor who lived in Warrenpoint with his legal practice, Johnson & Rutherford, at 6 Marcus Square in Newry. During the First World War, Johnston was particularly associated with recruitment and was Chairman of the Newry Recruiting Committee; Alex Fisher, another prominent local solicitor was its Hon. Secretary.