In pictures: Jason McGee and Jennifer McGee open extension at Scoil Fhionáin

There were celebrations in Scoil Fhionáin, Falcarragh as the school and wider community gathered for the official opening of their new extension. Please click on the arrows to go through the gallery

The completed work comprises two classrooms, two sensory rooms, a general-purpose room, two reception rooms and toilet facilities to support the Inclusion of children with Autism in the area.

Despite the wind and rain on the day, a large crowd assembled to watch guests of honour Jennifer McGee and Cloughaneely and Donegal midfielder Jason McGee, both past pupils, cut the ribbon to officially open the much-needed and eagerly awaited addition to the school.

Jennifer is a testament to the inclusive nature of Scoil Fhionáin, having attended it throughout her primary school years. Jason, working in the area of special needs himself, said it was an honour to be asked back on such a special occasion.

This day marked five years of hard work and dedication for all involved, from the initial wheels set in motion by Caitríona Uí Cheallaigh, Principal, now retired, in 2020, to the grand opening, under the direction of principal Stephen Cannon.

The day marked the culmination of work by past and present board of Management, McCabe Architects, represented on the day by Declan McCabe and Pauric Sweeney, QS on the project, McMenamin and Sons, contractors, represented by Patrick Bonnar, project manager and Tony Anderson, foreman.

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The parents and friends of the school were addressed by Fr. John Boyce, PP, Múinteoir Yvonne on behalf of Caitríona Uí Cheallaigh, Múinteoir Stephen, Principal, Noreen Casserly of the parents association and the honoured guests. The school choir provided beautiful musical entertainment. Refreshments afterwards were provided by The Strand Road bar and kitchen, Falcarragh.

Members of the Falcarragh Celtic Supporters Club summer cup committee, Denis Doohan and Willie Doohan, also attended the celebrations. The summer cup raised funds through their soccer competition, run in Memory of John Harley and Joe Kelly. These funds were generously donated by them to equip the sensory rooms and were very much appreciated. A plaque to acknowledge this will be hung in the new building. Múinteoir Stepen thanked the members and welcomed the Harley and Kelly families on the day. The new addition to the school will support Inclusion in the school and the wider community for many years to come.