Like thousands of schools around the county Kinsale Community School marked Proclamation Day yesterday with music, readings and the raising of the Tricolour. The ceremony, which was organised by Mr. Diarmuid O'Donovan, commenced with a welcome and opening statement. The Proclamation was then explained to students by Head Girl, Alison Condon, and Ciara Linham, First Year, before it was read in both Irish and English by Cuán Tobin, Sadhbh O'Hanrahan, Fintan Forde, Evita Volginaite and Allanah Humphreys.
Aidan Lynch and Marieke Buckley then described the origins and the meanings of the Tricolour which was then raised by Mr. Brendan Barry, school caretaker, as members of the choir and trad music group, under the guidance of Ms. Brid Kearney, performed Amhrán na bhFiann.
The Principal, Mr. Fergal McCarthy, addressed the students and impressed upon them the sacrifice that these men and women had made to achieve the freedoms and independence that we enjoy today in contemporary Ireland.
Proceedings concluded with a rendition of ‘The Foggy Dew’ by the music group and choir, ably directed by Ms. Brid Kearney.
This ceremony was profound in many ways. The behaviour and demeanour of each and every student was dignified and respectful, which serves as a testament to their character. The cooperation between teachers and students was superb as usual and is a reminder of the positive learning environment created at Kinsale Community School. Finally, the event showed just how essential History is as a subject that can create meaning and identity for both Irish born and new Irish citizens as we forge a new and inclusive Republic together.
The national schools in Kinsale also marked Proclamation Day with their own flag raising ceremonies.