Local gather at opening of new school

July 2008

THERE is a carnival atmosphere in Kilkerley as the community gathers to celebrate the completion of an extension to Scoil Mhuire gan Smál, new car-park and playing fields.

Chief celebrant at Mass in the Church of the Immaculate Conception is Cardinal Seán Brady, assisted by Bishop Gerard Clifford.

Afterwards the congregation follows the cardinal in procession for the blessing of a striking sculpture of Muire gan Smál by Sandra Bell.

Pupil Orlaith Mulholland gives a stunning rendition of ‘A Mhuire Mháthair’ and the new classrooms are blessed.

The celebrations continue with a parish barbecue.

School principal Madonna Lambert outlines the history of recent developments and thanks everyone involved.

She has a special mention for the board of management and fundraising committee and is loud in her praise of the hard work of her colleagues, deputy principal Mr McCarthy, Mrs Donnelly, Ms Kane, Mrs Brennan, M Fahy and Ms Harvey.

Representing Minister Dermot Ahern and Deputy Séamus Kirk, Cllr Peter Savage hopes the school will continue to be a place of happy memories for all who receive their education in Kilkerley.

Parish priest Fr Malachy Conlon stresses the importance of education.

‘It is important on days like today that we realise in new ways that Catholic education is inspired by the gospel of Jesus Christ and, as such, respects the freedom and dignity of every human being,’ he says.

Fr Conlon thanks the parish development committee and the board of management, as well as Mrs Lambert and the school staff for their dedication and commitment.