We had a fitting, if not emotional, tribute to Fr O'Neill in the school today when pupils, staff (former and current) and governors had an opportunity to thank  Fr O'Neill for his ministry in the parish of Termonmaguirc but also as a governor and school chaplain for the past 16 years.

P7 pupil, Cait McCallan opened the proceedings with an Irish blessing.

Mrs Hendry read a poem that she had written about our experience of working alongside him.

Chairperson of the Board of Governors, Mrs Ursula McElroy gave a deeply heartfelt speech thanking Fr O'Neill for his commitment to the school, his faithful ministry and wise counsel.  Mrs McElroy also presented Fr O’Neill with a beautiful Galway Crystal vase inscribed with a message on behalf of parents, pupils, staff and governors on the school and Naíscoil. We would like to thank Mrs Caroline Slane, Wrapped Up Luxury Gifts for the donation of this very beautiful and appropriate gift.

Mr Cush presented Fr O’Neill with an illuminated picture of St Colmcille’s stained-glass window from the chapel which he’d created.

The children in Rang 5- 7 sang a beautiful rendition on Fonn na Saoirse- The Sound of silence, accompanied by Mrs Geraldine Strain on the harp. 

Mr Cush thanked everyone for helping to make this such a memorable occasion for Fr O’Neill including the kitchen staff for providing refreshments.

Fr O’Neill thanked everyone in the school community for the welcome he had always received in the school and the pleasure it was to work alongside the staff, pupils, parents and governors.