10 May 2007

Schools Competition at UCC Promotes History Awareness

The History Department, UCC, held its annual Schools' Essay/Project competition prize-giving ceremony for history students in the Leaving (Senior) and Junior Certificate cycles on Friday, 4 May. Students were invited to write an essay or prepare a project on an aspect of local history; such as people, places, events or times of importance and renown. Projects could include artwork, photographs or models, as well as written contributions.

The competition was a resounding success with a large number of entries from schools throughout Munster, all of a very high standard. In his opening remarks at the ceremony, the Acting Head of the History Department, Gabriel Doherty, complimented the hard work, dedication and enthusiasm that each entrant brought to the task. Prizes were awarded to first-place winners and there were two runners-up prizes in both Leaving and Junior Certificate cycles. Various members of the History Department staff paid individual tribute to the work of each of the prizewinners.

The Junior Level 1st prize was awarded to Gabrielle O'Donoghue, Loreto Secondary School, Fermoy, for her project "M'áit Féin". Junior Level 2nd prize was awarded to Graham Martin-Sullivan, Beara Community School, Castletownbere, for his project "The Siege of Dunboy". Aisling O'Keeffe, Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane, was awarded 3rd prize for her project on "Rory Gallagher". The Leaving Certificate (Senior) Level prize recipients were: Linda Ní Thuathaigh, Gaelcholáiste an Chláir, Inis, Co Clare, who was awarded 1st prize for her project "The History of Fenloe Parish". Kate Twomey, Beara Community School, Castletownbere, was awarded 2nd prize for her project on "William Martin Murphy". Daniel Cronin, St Brogan's College, Bandon, was awarded 3rd prize for his project "Famous Landmarks of Ballineen and Surroundings".

All prizewinners' schools were awarded cheques for the purchase of history books. Diarmuid Scully, Chair of the History Department's Schools Liaison and Outreach Committee, which organised the event, congratulated all of the students on their excellent achievement, as well as thanking all of the teachers and families present for their support to the prizewinners. The ceremony was followed with a reception.

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