There was an exceptionally warm welcome for tUachtarán na hÉireann Catherine Connolly when she visited Granard in north Longford on Monday, November 9, with Sister Maeve Brady, the founder of Rath Mhuire and Dolmen Community Resource Centre, describing her as a 'special' person.
President Connolly stopped at the historical Rose Cottage in Ballinalee—which served as the headquarters for General Seán MacEoin during the 1920 Battle of Ballinalee, for lunch on her way.
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The highly respected Sister Brady, a Mercy Sister and a former teacher at Cnoc Mhuire Granard spearheaded the memorable reception for the President of Ireland.
Sr Maeve, who issued the invite to President Connolly to mark the 40th anniversary of Rath Mhuire and Dolmen Community Services, said she was delighted by the the hugely positive event.
Local school children cheered and lined the street with a sign that read 'Welcome President Connolly' and local musicians and Irish dancers performed as she stepped out of her car smiling broadly.
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9. President Catherine Connolly with the John Dungan CCE dancers at Rath Mhuire Resource Centre , Granard
Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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10. During her first official visit to county Longford on Monday afternoon, November 9, President Catherine Connolly was delighted to meet with Clare, Alice, Pat and James Brady at the 40th anniversary celebrations in Rath Mhuire Resource Centre, Granard. Prior to visiting the Granard centre, President Connolly was welcomed by staff and pupils at Melview National School in Longford town.
Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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11. President Catherine Connolly speaking with Men’s Shed members at Rath Mhuire Resource Centre, Granard
Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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12. Caroline Gray, President Catherine Connolly, Edna Smith, Pamela Dolan and Brian McEnery
Picture: Shelley Corcoran