On Friday 18th November, 2005, pupils, teachers, parents, sponsors, politicians, special guests and friends all came together to take part in celebrating the opening of the new extension. It was a day to recognise the efforts of the many people who had given so generously in money and time to make the extension a reality.

The scene is set!

Great preparations had gone into making the school look its best. A new garden had been added to the front entrance and trees planted along the walkway to the school and at the car park. A bright new carpet was laid in the hall and the walls of the corridors displayed the artwork of the children. A fáilte banner hung between the gable ends of the school with the flags of the children’s countries displayed.

Gráinne Campion, Extension Fund Committee, addresses the guests.

Shortly after 3 o’clock on the day, the minister arrived to a warm welcome. On the speeches front Fr. Murtagh spoke for the Board Of Management, Gráinne Campion for the Fund Raising Committee, Ambrose McGinnity as School Principal, Marina Ní Threasaigh as the School’s Inspector and finally Minister Dermot Ahern gave an excellent speech as Guest of Honour.

Without doubt the highlight of the day was the wonderful singing of the school choir who sang three beautiful songs. One of these songs, The Lifeboat Song, was accompanied by two members of the local lifeboat station.

Principal Ambrose McGinnity addresses the large crowd at the opening of Callystown N.S. extension.

Minister Dermot Ahern speaks to the crowd before officially opening the extension.

A section of the large crowd in attendance at the official opening.

After the speeches the crowd moved outside to see Minister Ahern cutting the tape and Fr. Murtagh blessing the new extension. When the formalities were complete everyone went into the extension for refreshments and enjoyed looking at the many old photographs that were on display.

It certainly was a great day!

Scoil Náisiúnta Baile na gCailleach, Ceann Chlochair, Co. Lú.