Commemorative plaque unveiled as Mullahoran national school celebrates 50th anniversary

Sunday last was a very memorable and proud day in the parish as it marked the 50th anniversary of the opening of our national school on September 3, 1974.

This new modern building incorporated the three old parish schools, Cloncovid, Kilcogy and Loughduff which all were in very poor repair.

It’s interesting to note that Loughduff actually had a boys and a girls school and at the time there was some opposition to the children having to travel to the ‘upper end’ of the parish. It was only when Fr Donal O’Lehane announced that the Department would provide bus transport that the matter was settled.  

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A busy Sunday started with a special celebration mass with chief celebrant Fr PJ Hughes assisted by our new P.P. Fr Joe McGrath and past pupil Fr Kevin Fay in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Mullahoran where a packed congregation attended. 

Afterwards it was on to the school where a special reception was held for everyone with refreshments and entertainment while the school doors were thrown open and here the memories started - meeting old pals and visiting the various classrooms displays.

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A time capsule was inserted into the school wall and in 50 years time many of those attending will have moved on however, and then a commemorative plaque was unveiled by Fr PJ who was such an important figurehead in the parish for the past five years.

Afterwards a packed community centre enjoyed a special celebration dinner which finished off a wonderful day.

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Well done to the organising committee and the school staff who literally left no stone unturned to ensure everything ran smooth.  And for those who came home for the occasion we say a big thank you and hope your stay among us has left many happy memories. 

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