Red letter day in Ballinacree as Tánaiste opens new-look school

Thursday last saw the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affiars, Micheal Martin, officially open the new-look St Fiach's National School in Ballinacree.

The €1.2 million extension was first approved funding in 2018 for the addition of a new building and classrooms due to the serious mould and fire safety issues throughout the school premises. Complications arose due to the Covid pandemic and construction was put on halt until the school returned in September 2022.

The majority of the community made an appearance to the opening of the new building. Not only did 81 current students come to the event but also a number of past pupils. Former principal of the national school, Ann Noelle Bennett, also came to show her support as well as Fr Alo Connaughton.

To celebrate the occasion, the senior class performed an original song wrote by music teacher, Kyle Reilly, called 'Astronaut.' Some of the other students of the school showed their musical talent through playing the tin whistle.

Crover House Hotel were providing refreshments and catering for the event, helped out by the parents' association. The community are entirely grateful for the support of local enterprse, and Poppy Douglas, a member of the St Fiach's Parents Association said: "The day belonged to the students who stole the show in song, music and dance showing the energy and vitality that the school will harness for generations to come."

The plaque on the wall of the new extension was created by a father of three sons that attend the school, Ronan Kearney. It was made in Ross Limestone Quarry, less than 10 minutes from the school, making it local to the community.

"It's organic to the environment. We used what the area surrounding us could provide" said Poppy.

To show their gratitude and appreciation, Shane McHugh, principal, presented a signed jersey from All-Black out-half Beauden Barrett, who attended this school as a child, to Michaél Martin.