Clonegal NS names new playground after much-loved pupil James
Bishop Nulty cuts the ribbon to officially open the new playground at Clonegal NS
THERE were poignant moments in Clonegal recently, when the local national school officially launched its new playground, naming it after a much-loved pupil.
James’s Station was named after James Mulligan Redmond, a little boy who had attended the school and who passed way in August last year, aged just eight years’ old, after fighting terminable cancer. At the opening ceremony, James’s parents Siobhain and David unveiled a beautiful sign to name the playground, while his school mates released balloons to celebrate the new facility and to remember James on the special occasion.
The sign was kindly made and donated by Kavanagh Signs, while two communication boards for children with speech difficulties were kindly donated by Finding Charlie’s Voice.
“James was the happiest boy, extremely clever, witty and a real character,” said his mother Siobhain. “He was the best big brother to Ryan (7). He loved playing with his trains, his favourite was Thomas the Tank Engine. He loved reading and watching movies. He was a great friend – kind, considerate and so caring. One of his favourite places was school, playing and learning with his friends.”
The official launch of the playground began with Mass in St Brigid’s Church, after which Bishop Denis Nulty, Fr Pat Hughes, PP, Fr Andy Leahy, staff, members of the board of management, the parents’ council, pupils and invited guests proceeded to the playground for the blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Other guests included the architect Barry Fitzgibbon from McGinley and Fitzgibbon Architects, Naas, Co Kildare, who designed and brought the project to fruition last summer, along with Nolan Construction in Hacketstown.
The school choir performed , accompanied on guitar by fellow pupils, while talented Irish dancers demonstrated their amazing skills.
“Our school community is very fortunate to have this amazing facility,” said school principal Mary Gallagher. “It was an enjoyable and memorable day for our school and our community.”
