Kilbeggan pays tribute to Scoil an Chlochair principal

The school and wider community of Kilbeggan gathered for a special retirement Mass in honour of Niall Rabbitt, celebrating many years of service to Scoil an Chlochair NS on Thursday October 8 last.

During the Mass in the Church of St James, Fr Corrigan paid tribute to Niall, acknowledging the dedication, care and commitment he had shown to the school since 2003.

The school choir added to the occasion, providing beautiful music that made the celebration the more special.

Geraldine Fennell, chairperson of the board of management, also spoke warmly of Niall’s contribution to the school, and thanked him for his commitment to the staff and pupils, highlighting how the children had always been at the heart of every decision he made.

His care for their happiness, wellbeing and education was a defining feature of his time in Kilbeggan.

A touching moment came at the end of the Mass when Niall addressed the congregation. He thanked all the children, whose presence and enthusiasm had made his time in the school so meaningful. He also expressed his gratitude to Fr Corrigan and Geraldine for their kind words and took the opportunity to thank his family for the love, encouragement and support they had given him throughout his career.

The celebrations continued in the school hall, where members of the school and wider community gathered for tea, coffee and refreshments, and fifth and sixth-class pupils provided a lovely surprise by performing a special song for Niall.

While Niall’s retirement marks the end of an important chapter at Scoil an Chlochair, the friendships he built, the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind will remain part of the school story for years to come.