BY DIARMAID DOHERTY
FR John Joe Duffy has paid tribute to the wider primary school community who all play a part in helping to provide education for our young people.
He was speaking after being honoured for his contribution to the community and to local schools at an event in Limerick on Tuesday night.
Fr Duffy was presented with the Sr Eileen Randles Award at the Catholic Primary School Management Association (CPSMA) awards dinner held in Limerick.
Sr Randles, from Co. Kerry, was a leading light in primary school education. The award is presented in recognition of those who excel in management excellence within education.
Fr Duffy, who is the CC in Creeslough, is a long-time member of the CMSMA and he attended their two day conference in Limerick this week as Diocesan Representative.
Speaking to the Donegal News, he said the award was an unexpected surprise.
“There are a lot of people in education who would have been very deserving of this award,” he said.
“I was not expecting it, and at a time like this, it’s important to thank all those who play their part in helping to educate our young – the teachers, the staff, the parents, the members of boards of management and parents’ associations.”
Fr Duffy recalled his first experience in school management in Glencolmcille in 2002.
He thanked in particular Monsignor Dan O Connor, Diocesan Education Secretary in Dublin and former CPSMA General Secretary.
“He helped me greatly when I started off in school management all those years ago,” he said.
Since then, Fr John Joe has remained involved in school management and primary education.
He singled out Ann Fay, Chairperson of the INTO for special mention along with Revd. John Dean who played such an important role in the campaign to retain small schools.
Fr Duffy was presented with his award by Minister for Education, Norma Foley and he said he was delighted that newly elected President of the INTO and Annagry native Dorothy McGinley, was also present.
“It was a lovely evening, and I was able to pay tribute to the Minister following her recent visit to Creeslough,” Fr John Joe added.
“She came to Donegal at a difficult time, but she didn’t feel the need to seek publicity or any fuss. Her visit was very much appreciated.
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