School History

School History

Gaelscoil an Athar Tadhg Ó Murchú, Gaelscoil na Dúglaise, Douglas was established in 1985 with 20 pupils as a result of a campaign launched by a group of parents and other interested parties. The school was named in honour of An tAthair Tadhg ó Murchú a cork priest who did much during his life to nurture the Irish language and culture.

The first Chairperson of Gaelscoil na Dúglaise was Seamus Ó Riain, followed by Derek Ó’ Nuallain until 1999. Derek was succeeded by Áine Bean Mhic Sheáin who was Chairperson until 2007.Tomás Breathnach succeeded Áine until 2011 . The present chairperson is Mr Don Hegarty. The first Principal, Máire Uí Chonghaile (currently a schools’ inspector) was appointed in 1985. Pádraig Mac Fhlannchadha (also a schools inspector now) took up the helm in 2000. He was succeeded by Niamh Ní Mhaoláin in 2002. Since then the school has grown into a eightteen teacher school with over 350 pupils of nine different nationalities on roll.

The school was initially accommodated in rented rooms at Coláiste Mhuire, Douglas, residence of the Presentation Brothers. This is now Reeveswood. All in Gaelscoil na Dúglaise are much obliged to the Brothers for their support, friendship and co-operation during our years there.

As a result of much work and co-operation between management, teachers and parents, over the years we finally settled into our new school building which is situated off the South Link and the South Douglas Road. It was officially opened by Minister Michael Martin in 1996. This fine building has cost the Department of Education over a million pounds and comprised eight classrooms, a hall and ancillary rooms - staffroom, library/resource room, secretary’s office and principal’s office. It was evident quite quickly that additional accommodation was needed to meet the demand for Irish medium education in the Douglas area. A further 8 classrooms and computer room were opened in 2004. Gaelscoil na Dúglaise has well and truly found its permanent home in the community of Douglas. Gaelscoil na Dúglaise celebrated 25 years in 2010-2011. President Mary Mc Aleese honoured the school by visiting on 26th of November 2010.