President McAleese visits Kilrea
Kilrea played host to a special visit from the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese and her husband Dr. Martin McAleese last week.
By Orla McNicholl
The president had a number of engagements in the area, including a visit to St. Paul’s College, Kilrea to mark the school’s 40th anniversary, the official opening of Kilrea GAC’s clubhouse and a visit to the new offices of Kilrea, Rasharkin and Dunloy Credit Union.
The President was greeted by the principal, board of governors, senior staff and pupils on her arrival to St. Paul’s College on Tuesday.
After giving a talk to the school assembly, a number of students asked the president questions about her role as President in Ireland.
The President was clearly impressed with the college, noting the welcoming atmosphere, the college’s evident community links and the excellent examination results that the college has achieved consistently over the last number of years.
A plaque, which was designed and produced by Technology and Design students Donagh Morren and Owen Maguire, was presented to the president to commemorate her visit to the college. The plaque incorporated the presidential and school crest, and also noted the fact that the president had visited the college as part of the 40th anniversary celebrations.
A spokesperson for the school said: “The college is honoured that the president and her husband took time to visit the college. It is a day that will be remembered in the history of the college for all of the pupils, staff and the wider college community.”
Speaking on the president’s visit to the town, East Derry assemblyman John Dallat said: “This was, without a doubt one of the greatest days in the life of Kilrea.
“The visit will be etched in my mind for the rest of my life. No doubt it will be remembered by others and especially our children and young people who were privileged to meet such an inspirational figure known and loved throughout the world.”
