In order to commemorate the centenary of the 1916 Rising and to celebrate 100 years since the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, Óglaigh na hÉireann delivered a National Flag to our school today, December 14th, 2015.
This is a key part of the Ireland 2016 commemorative programme and will see members of Óglaigh na hÉireann, in uniform, visiting schoolchildren, teachers and parents in over 3,200 schools across the Republic.
Today our school was visited by a team led by Sergeant Kennedy, Company Private O’ Neill and Private Flynn, who presented the National Flag in a very special ceremony. Today we were taught how the National Flag should be cared for and the protocol that surrounds this vibrant symbol of our nation.
An extract of the 1916 Proclamation was read by Paddy and Tony Collins, whose forefather, Micheal Collins, participated in the 1916 rising. Sergeant Kennedy then presented the flag and a copy of the 1916 Proclamation to Isabelle Ryan and Christopher Lehane, two pupils from 6th class. This was followed by the Amhrán na bhFiann, our National Anthem, sung by 4th, 5th and 6th class with Mr Reade providing the accompanying music.
In addition to the National Flag and the 1916 Proclamation, the Defence Forces also gave our school a pack, containing a booklet on how to care for the Flag, information on the Ireland 2016 programme, a poster of Amhrán na bhFiann and our National Anthem.
We look forward to learning a lot more about 1916 in this centenary year. On Proclamation Day, 15th March 2016, every school will raise their National Flag in special ceremonies following the example of Óglaigh na hÉireann – and the 1916 Proclamation will be read. All parents are welcome to attend this special occasion.
Many thanks to all who were involved in this memorable ceremony.
December 17, 2015
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