School unveils new sports hall in memory of tragic teacher Clodagh

“This is a day for us to celebrate Halla Clodagh but of course it is tinged with sadness for us all as we remember our beloved Clodagh and her boys." 

The words of Oristown NS principal Ann O’Kelly Lynch speaking at the emotional opening of a new hall in memory of their former teacher Clodagh Hawe who was murdered with her three children by her husband and their father in 2016.

The official opening of the Sports Hall - 'Halla Clodagh' - took place today with the Bishop of Meath with Clodagh’s Mother Mary Coll, and Sister Jaqueline Connelly unveiling a beautiful plaque in Clodagh’s memory.

The new wonderful light filled space was filled with pupils, teachers, parents and the Garda Band is what will be forever known ‘Halla Clodagh’ dedicated to the memory of their teacher, colleague and friend.

Preparations have been in full swing these past few months for today but no one expected the emotional rollercoaster it was. A speech from Principal Ann O’Kelly Lynch invoked huge emotion.

Bishop Tom Deenihan reveals the plaque that reads 'Smile, play and think of me” 

After welcoming Clodagh’s mother Mary, and sister Jaqueline, Ann O’Kelly Lynch went on to say: “This is a day for us to celebrate Halla Clodagh but of course it is tinged with sadness for us all as we remember our beloved Clodagh and her boys. During her thirteen years as a teacher in Oristown Clodagh touched and enhanced the lives of so many people in this school community."

“She was a wonderful, dedicated and caring teacher for our pupils. She was a mentor, advisor and a support for all parents. And to us her colleagues she was a source of joy, fun and a wonderful friend. We miss her and will continue to miss her but in dedicating this hall to her memory, Clodagh’s goodness and kindness will be remembered in the school community for many many years to come”.

Also speaking today at the opening was parent and building co-ordinator Brendan O’Neill: “I can’t imagine, when the idea of a sports hall was conceived, that anyone thought it would be dedicated to the beloved memory of Clodagh”.

The day was full of emotion from start to finish, Bishop Deenihan blessed the hall and celebrated mass alongside parish priest Fr. John O’Brien and the ceremony finished on a huge high with the fantastic Garda Band who raised the roof with wonderful music and songs and involving the children who were bursting with excitement.

Bishop Tom Deenihan greets Clodagh's sister Jacqueline Connolly.

The fundraising efforts from all of the families in the school was part of a significant healing process as it allowed the children, parents and teachers speak of their beloved Clodagh on a daily basis in a positive manner about the hall it’s progress and completion.

Excited pupils of Oristown NS in the new Halla Codagh.

The build cost €300k, €200,000 was granted by the Department of Education and €100,000 raised by the school, parents and donations. It was built by contractor Padraic Shannon.

A plaque on the wall of Halla Clodagh reads: 'Smile, play and think of me”

Bishop Deenihan and Mary Coll unveil the plaque.