Mallow’s Gaelscoil Thomáis Dáibhís: ‘Táimid Oscailte’
THE board of management, parents, staff and pupils gathered at Gaelscoil Thomáis Dáibhís on Monday for the official opening of the new extension at the Mallow school.
With a blanket of soft snow covering the newly completed playgrounds, they and specially invited guests were welcomed by fourthclass pupils Eoin De Barra, with Canon O’Brien leading a prayer service in the school hall.
Among the guests were Gaelscoil founding members Padraigín Bn Uí Loingsigh, Padraig Mac an Fhailligh and Máire Bn Uí Bhriain who were charged with the task of officially opening the seven classroom extension.
All present were treated to a rousing performance by the Army Band under the baton of Company Sergeant Noel Galvin prior to the cutting of the ribbon and a blessing by Canon O’Brien.
Pádraig Mac an Fhailligh recounted the many developments in the physical surroundings of the Gaelscoil down through the years, with the support and generosity of many townspeople and organisations and thanked Davis College and Gaelcholáiste Dáibhís for the cooperation that exists between the two neighbouring schools.
In his address, school principal Dónal Ó Murchú praised the founding members for their lifetime of work in setting up, nourishing and developing the Gaelscoil from its beginnings in the parish centre into a vibrant and busy learning environment.
That progressive learning environment is now matched by a building that is equally progressive and impressive throughout.
Special thanks was given to the team, led by O’Keeffe/O’Connell Architects, who designed and oversaw the construction, by Maloney Contractors, of the new classrooms and playground areas.
Board of management chairperson, Máire Uí Bhriain, spoke of her immense pride and joy when she observes the children learning and playing through the medium of Irish.
Máire continued by thanking the hard working parents association and staff of the school, before looking to the future and wishing every success to the pupils of the Gaelscoil.
The board of management also acknowledged the work and support of local politicians, including Sean Sherlock and the late Dan Joe Fitzgerald, as well as others who lent their support in progressing this project over the past number of years.