23 February 2018
Head Girl Carla Fusciardi Wallace reports on the opening of the new Wexford Courthouse
On Monday, 19 February I was delighted to attend the opening of the new courthouse in Wexford Town as a guest of Deputy Brendan Howlin. A number of weeks ago I wrote to Councillor George Lawlor to enquire about whether there would be any student representation at the opening ceremony of this new facility, and if so, to state that I would be enthusiastic to be a part of that representation. I am grateful to have gained an invitation to the event as a result of this.
I intend to study law at third level, so as a seventeen year old student it has been most exciting to witness the development of a hub of legal activity in our town. At the event, it was an honour to meet and interact with several Irish dignitaries, District Court judges and members of the legal system, in particular Chief Justice Frank Clarke and Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan. During his speech Chief Justice Clarke gave mention to the “magnificent building” built on an “historic location”.
Many of the people I spoke to were interested to hear my opinions about the building as a local student. I spoke widely about the opportunities that the new facility presents to allow students to experience the Irish Legal System in an educational capacity. I was delighted to hear that this opportunity will be soon taken up by 2nd year Loreto students, as they will visit the new facility as a part of their Civic, Social and Political Education course.
The building itself is bright and spacious and while it is clear that not all those who enter the building will be primarily concerned with its architectural functions, it will provide a comfortable and adequate space for all its users. I am grateful to have also spoken to Alan Corcoran of South-East Radio on the day about the building itself and my beliefs on how it can benefit students in the immediate future.
I gained a lot from my experience of being in attendance at the opening of the Courthouse, specifically the benefits of actively enquiring about things one is interested in. Institutions of law enforcement can often be perceived as daunting places; however I believe that this structure has the potential to breathe new life in the community. It offers the opportunity for many young people of Wexford to pursue their ambitions in their chosen fields and then perhaps offer their talents in the inspiring facilities our home county now has to offer. The new facility is also a clear testament to Public-Private Partnership in Ireland. As Wexford presents the fruits of this policy in the form of the new Courthouse and Garda Headquarters it is my hope that our very own new school facility, will join the ranks in the near future.
School Bank Programme – report by Alanna Fusciardi Wallace
On Wednesday, 22 February the transition year bank team made up of Alanna Fusciardi Wallace, Rachel Murphy, Sarah Jones, Sophie Boxwell, Emer O’Rourke, Ellen Lambert, Aishling Staples, Sally Bruen and Lauren Wiggans launched this year’s bank. The team of 4th Years went through an interview process with representatives from the bank. Peter Cooney is the leader from Bank of Ireland who has guided the team in hope of having a successful run. The bank team will be offering a service to open bank accounts for students over the coming weeks starting with 4th years and from there offering the service to each year group weekly. The next year group that will get the opportunity will be 1st years. A form will be given to the student offering further information. The School Bank Programme offered by Bank of Ireland is a simple and easy way for students to open accounts and become educated about the bank.
Letter to Families
An important letter to families relating to the new school, Child Protection and Junior Cycle training for staff was issued on 22 February 2018. Please see the relevant section of the school website for this letter.
Log On Learning
Transition Year students will be running another series of Log On Learning for members of the community who would like help with technical devices. Sessions run from 16.20 to 17.20 each Tuesday, beginning on 27 February and lasting until Easter.
Anyone interested in taking part in this course is invited to phone Betty at Reception (053-9142783). There is no cost involved for participants.
Leinster Schools Cross Country
Well done to all students who travelled to Santry, Co. Dublin, representing the school in the Leinster Schools cross country on Wednesday, 21 February. The minor girls team came 6th in the team event over 1,500m. The team members were Sinead O’Reilly, Eimear Halpin, Aisling Murphy, Taylor Peare, Caoilfhionn Ni Nuallain and Flora Doran. Sinead O’Reilly finished in 14th position, thereby qualifying for the All Ireland Schools. Her sister Roisin also qualified finishing 6th in the inter girls 3,500 m. Best of luck to Roisin and Sinead as they prepare for the Irish Life All Ireland Schools cross country which will be held in Waterford I.T. on Saturday, 10 March.
