The Minister for Education, a Minister of State, two TDs, a bishop and the parish priest were all in Trumera this afternoon for a very special occasion: the official opening of Gaelscoil Thromaire.
Though the students of the small school have been in their new building since last September, this was a momentous day for the official opening.
Minister for Education Norma Foley was on hand to do the honours of cutting the ribbon as students, teachers, parents and the wider school community gathered for what was a significant day for all concerned.
For the 120 years prior to last September, children in the area were educated in the old school building about 1km up the road.
The 30 students of the school were at the very centre of the occasion of what is a unique situation, the school having switched over to Gaelscoil status over 20 years ago.
Save for the odd phrase or two, all the speeches were in Irish and among the speakers was former principal Liam O’Neill.
Indeed it’s symbolic of the area’s ability to punch above its weight that O’Neill, one of its former principals, rose to be president of the GAA and another, Carol Nolan, is now an independent TD for Laois-Offaly.
Current principal is Aine Mhic Aoidh Bhuí who was joined today by her fellow staff members Fiona ní Bhaoil, who has been teaching in the school for the past 12 years, special education teacher Colm MacDonncha, special needs assistant Riona ní Gréacháin, secretary Ciara Kirwan-Danne and caretaker Leanne Delaney.
Also in attendance today was Mairead ní Nualláin, chairperson of the board of management, Minister Sean Fleming, Deputy Brian Stanley, Cllr John Joe Fennelly, Bishop Denis Nulty and Fr Joe Brophy.
“This is our community. We’ve a pitch, a hall and a school and we’re very proud of it,” said Liam O’Neill in his speech, albeit in Irish.
“I hope all of you consider our school into the future,” added Mairead ní Nualláin, going briefly into speaking English.
“Our school is the beating heart of our community and let us ensure it endures into the future.”
“What a wonderful school you have,” said Bishop Nulty. “I hope you’re happy here learning and playing.”
“A wonderful, historic day,” said Minister Foley. “It gives me great hope to see the work done here … keeping our lovely language alive.”
Mairead ní Nualláin also had a special word of praise for John O’Connor, a past pupil himself and current parent of kids in the school, for his work behind the scenes in getting the new building completed.
A staunch Trumera GAA man, whose club grounds are just across the road from the school, he was described as “laoch on pharóiste” and “role model” for his “diligence” and his “loyal commitment and volunteerism”.
“Ní bheidh a leithead ann arís.”
Following the speeches and musical renditions from the students, Minister Foley cut the ribbon as refreshments were served and those present were invited to view the inside of the school.
“Lá iontach, stariúl” indeed.
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