Students from Athlone Gaelscoil hear former President speak in Seanad

Sixth class students from Scoil na gCeithre Máistrí in Lissywollen, Athlone, had the opportunity to enter Leinster House and see former President of Ireland Mary Robinson speak last week

Sixth class pupil Rose Fleming recently completed a project on the former President and was congratulated in the Seanad by the Cathaoirleach and Fine Gael Senator Jerry Buttimer. He said that it was “a great joy” for Rose to be able to meet Mrs Robinson.

Class teacher James Shaughnessy from Ballinasloe said it was nice for the school to receive this kind of recognition. Fellow teacher Gearóid Ó'Duibhir from Coosan organises a sixth class trip to Dublin every year and the students also visited the National Art Gallery and the National Museum of Ireland.

Mr Shaughnessy said it was a “bit special” when they entered the Seanad and that a staff member gave them information on the history of the Oireachtas. This worker gave a note to the Cathaoirleach informing them about the project that Rose completed previously and the school and Rose were mentioned in the chamber, receiving a big applause.

Mr Shaughnessy said Rose was “very excited” and “kind of taken aback” by the recognition and the other students were “delighted” for her. “She didn't expect when she was doing the project that she'd actually get to be in the same room and get an applause from Mary Robinson herself.”

The children didn't have the opportunity to speak to Mrs Robinson as she was busy speaking to the Seanad about climate change but their teacher added that it was nice that the Cathaoirleach recognised their attendance in the chamber.

The children also had the opportunity to hear a Dáil debate. Mr Shaughnessy explained: “The first thing we did was Leaders Questions and we were up in the gallery and we saw Simon Harris go over and back with the TDs." He said the kids thought it was “great” as things became heated at one point.