Portuguese Ambassador celebrates Europe Day with Offaly students

Pupils in Scoil Nais. Mhuire, Cloneygowan participated in a very special initiative designed by the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Education and the Royal Irish Academy of Music called Ár nAmhrán, Our Anthem.

They are one of 450 schools and groups who participated in live performances of the EU Anthem ‘Ode to Joy’ to celebrate Europe Day, 9th  May.

Pupils at Gaelscoil, Éadan Doire are also actively learning about the EU, European cultures and Ireland’s membership through the Blue Star Programme which fosters learning through creativity. 

Minister Pippa Hackett said “It is such a pleasure to meet with children and young people to hear what Europe means to them and to answer their questions. This is my second year of similar visits and like last year I am blown away by the level of knowledge and interest in Europe’s future.”

Ambassador Lucena said “As Ambassador of Portugal, I am delighted to participate in Ireland’s commemoration of Europe Day, incentivising students to invest in knowledge, to make the most of the many opportunities the EU affords them, and to proactively engage with its life and institutions.

“I am grateful to Minister Hackett and to the Irish Government for this kind invitation, once again involving Embassies in this engagement initiative. Bringing together young people and the EU is truly important and furthermore, this collaboration has already become a tradition.”

Minister Hackett also rose Scoil Mhuire’s 10th  and final Green Flag and congratulated the students, staff and entire school body on being the first school in Offaly to achieve all 10 Green Flags.