Review Summer2014_Layout17/25/148:53AMPage36 Roscrea Review

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Review Summer2014_Layout17/25/148:52AMPage Four firstyearstudentsreactwithunbridled joytoDomRichard’sannouncementon • • • In thisissue... A brightfuture beckons. The onusisonus, through hard work, honesty andintegrity, Ronnie Culliton: AProfile. New Board ofManagement for theCollege. The Future ofCCR. N o . 99 - N to reach for thestars. ewsletter 16th MarchofCCR’sfuture.

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R os c rea U n io n Summer 2017 The Future of CCR

To say it’s probably been the most pastman might have to CCR, he or Trustees chose three CCR pastmen tumultuous few months in the 112 she would not be likely to pledge, Ronnie Culliton, Andrew Cody and year history of CCR is surely putting still less donate, one, two ten or a Jack Kennedy, along with Brother it mildly! The announcement of hundred thousand euro, pounds or Malachy from the Monastery Friday 17th February, while most dollars to a venture without some and Sr. Ann O’Donoghue of the immediately affecting the current prospect of it being a successful Loreto order. Sr. Ann was until pupils, their parents and the staff, and worthwhile investment. recently the Principal of St. sent shock waves throughout the Ronnie Culliton, Andrew Cody, Aidan’s Community School in CCR diaspora scattered all over the Padraic Ó’Máille, Bill O’Brien, Brookfield, Tallaght and brings world. Tears were shed and feelings Fergal Cox, Paul Davey, Graham huge experience to the Board. The of regret mingled with thoughts Ross, Arthur Spring and others Board which also has three staff that a school with as eminent a are to be commended for the sheer members, Catherine Smyth, Jim history as CCR just shouldn’t be credibility they brought to the McManus and Kevin Kelly and two closing down. venture. parents Sinéad Lawlor and Peter Murphy, has been up and running And some people decided that they Early in March, when things were since April and has been extremely were determined to see that CCR very much in the balance, a survey busy. WOULD NOT CLOSE DOWN! seeking expressions of interest was organised members of the Parents’ A Status Update was emailed to Meetings like the one in the Association and staff assisted by pastmen on the Alumni database County Arms, Birr on Wednesday pastmen Denis Delaney, Gareth on 8th June and can be had on 22nd February are often just Doorley, David Ryan, Conor request from the Alumni Office. occasions for people to vent their Loughnane, Peter Ormond, Steven This was an extremely positive feelings of regret, frustration Miller, Barry Liffey, Tim Meaghar document which gave details on and even anger, but never lead to and Paul Davey. This involved the Board and its work of so far, any concrete outcome. From the distributing 15,000 flyers to its plans for the near future under beginning it was apparent that this schools in the Laois, Offaly and the headings: Fundraising, Capital one was going to be different. An North Tipperary. Expenditure, Enrolments for 2017 Action Group was formed, mainly and beyond, the Scholarship/ involving parents and pastmen: a Then on 16th March, Dom Richard Bursary Programme, Marketing/ number of meetings were held with made the announcement that in Communications, Teaching and Dom Richard and on Friday 24th the light of the submission to the Learning, Boarding, Finance and February he gave a commitment Trustees from the CCR Action Strategic Plan. This latter will be that no action to close the College Group, the monastic community developed under the Chairmanship would be taken before St. Patrick’s had decided that Cistercian College of Professor John Geary (CCR Day. would remain open and extend its 1975-’80), Professor of Industrial enrolment options to include 5-day Relations and Human Resources In years to come, someone may and day boarders, and that the at UCD School of Business prior write the story of all that happened Trustees would immediately begin to the end of 2017. The update over the following three weeks. the process to appoint a Board of also contains biopics of the Board Parents, College Staff, pastmen of Management. Members. All told it runs to just all ages worked flat out to get the over 12 pages and is a testament to message across that CCR could While the Abbot’s letter to pastmen the great work done by the Action and would be saved. The hard described that day as one of the Group and the Board these past work was accompanied by the best most joyous in the history of the few months, and offers great hope possible example of leadership College, and said that they had for the future of CCR. – leaders who were committed witnessed a small miracle over the themselves and could convince previous four weeks, of even greater The Strategic Plan will help the others that the venture could significance was the fact that when College return to financial stability succeed. No matter how much it came to nominating five members through integrated enrolment, emotional attachment a parent or a to the Board of Management, the financial and fundraising strategies.

Roscrea Review 2 ROSCREA Review As an additional benefit, the plan Law Graduate School and, until an emotional video entitled “We will help with both enrolments recently, was Director of Doctoral are only getting started” which was and fundraising Parents are more Studies at the UCD Michael Smurfit viewed by hundreds of thousands of likely to send their sons confident School of Business. He is the co- people. And though older pastmen in the knowledge that the College’s author of many books including mightn’t realise it, the reality is future is guaranteed and donors Partnership at Work: The Quest that many of today’s parents are are more likely to support a for Radical Organizational regular users of Facebook and other College that has a clear vision and Change. He has contributed to the social media. If you haven’t seen it a strategy to make it happen. coverage of news stories on work click on https://www.facebook. and employment on TV and radio, com/search/top/?q=ccr%20 The Board recognises that including RTE’s Prime Time and support%20group - in particular key to a successful strategic This Week programmes, and in I loved his inspirational collage plan is unity of purpose and The Irish Times and the Industrial backed by the song “You Raise the Board is committed to Relations News. Me Up” and the more recent one engaging as early and as “Dreamers and Doers”. widely as possible in the A number of committees will process. examine a large range of issues Many events have taken place and make recommendations for recently – including an Open key improvements over the next Day, on 1st April which was The Board wishes to keep the aims six years and should report no later planned and superbly executed simple and they are; than 31st of October 2017. The in less than 10 days by a group of Board of Management is looking parents, staff and pastmen, and 1. Achieve excellence in the for past pupils to assist them an U-12 Hurling Blitz on 20th accomplishment of our core by becoming involved in these May that saw approximately 500 mission, the education of boys. committees. The Co-ordination boys representing 32 teams from Committee will then be tasked with 9 counties enjoying themselves 2. Plan for financial stability integrating the aims of the various thoroughly. In the photographs within 3 years and long committees and asked to complete from the day on the Facebook term financial equilibrium. their work in November 2017 page are two huge groups of boys bringing all the reports together at the front steps of the College. 3. Retain the Schools unique into one unified plan. The organization of this, and the ethos. feeding of the multitude of c.1000 One cannot leave this subject must have been a mammoth effort. The Board of Management is without mentioning Andrew Cody. Well done to all concerned!. delighted that Professor John Like all of us he was shattered by Geary has agreed to Chair the the February 17th announcement. I have tried to give a snapshot of committee that will produce this Like most of his age group and recent activity around the one integrated strategic plan prior to older, he knew very little about ambition we all share – the future the end of 2017 dealing with all social media, except that they have of an extraordinary educational aspects of Cistercian College. great influence. So, he started institution that has served us well As well as his role in UCD he is a Save CCR Facebook page not for over 100 years. I have never Honorary Professor at the Marco knowing what effect it would have. seen such interaction and co- Biagi Foundation, Università di Within two days it had 2,000 operation between parents and Modena e Reggio Emilia, Italy. followers and today has 3,500, pastmen working together for a A native of Rathkeale County this number growing weekly. common cause. Generations yet Limerick, after leaving CCR he Thousands of people accessed it unborn will salute those who took obtained his primary degree in and Andrew learned new skills of up the challenge, rolled up their NUI Maynooth and studied for editing video and incorporating sleeves and worked so hard to his Doctorate at Oxford. In the music and speech which he has secure the long term future of the past, John worked at Warwick used to post wonderful items on the school we love so well! Business School and held visiting now renamed CCR Support Group professorships in Italy and page. Recent past pupils Simon Here’s to the next 112 years! Norway. He was the first Director Meagher, John Cummins, Brian of UCD’s College of Business and Diffley and Sam Hastings prepared

Roscrea Review 3 ROSCREA Review big way. This edition has to send a positive message EDITORIAL and based on the content I have no doubt that it will. The work of the Save CCR Action group and latterly the new Board of Management has been absolutely This editorial will be short and sweet. extraordinary, as can be gleaned from some of the pieces inside. I usually try to attend the Rugby Support Group’s Annual Grand Slam Draw in late January – thanks Those who have been following events on Facebook to the generosity of pastmen who buy tickets over and receiving updates online will no doubt be up the internet I usually have plenty of counterfoils to speed on the present state of affairs, but here we to put into the drum for the draw. This year, I was offer a printed account which we hope all pastmen asked to baby sit my one and only grandchild on will appreciate. Ronnie Culliton and his team have the Sunday night, so I drove down to Junction 14 done a great job so far, but in reality, the work is on the M7, the day before, met Ronnie Culliton for only beginning. coffee and transferred the tickets. We had a grand chat and both of left for our respective homes. To The next edition of the Review will be the 100th my huge surprise, Ronnie rang me at about 9.30 on – a milestone in the life of any publication. It was the Sunday night with the news that my name was started back in the 1960s by Fr. Cathaldus (James) first out of the drum and that I could look forward Ryan, was edited for years by Fr. Dermot O’Colmain, to a trip to Cardiff to watch Ireland play Wales on and later Gerry Maher and Gearóid Ó Briain before 10th March. How appropriate that I wasn’t there on I took on the mantle in 2001. I will be asking some the night! of our most prolific writers to contribute to what will be a special edition, but don’t feel the need Little could either of us imagine as we spoke then, to wait to be asked. The Review always welcomes what dramatic events were to unfold over the next contributions from pastmen of whatever vintage. few weeks. There has been a great coming together of pastmen in recent months – let’s keep it going! Here is a long overdue edition of a Review that covers events of 2016 and even earlier. A lot of it Pat Hanratty was ready for the printers last February, but events [email protected] since then have demanded people’s attention in a

BRENDAN FEEHAN RESIGNS AS COLLEGE PRESIDENT

Statement from BOM Chairman: It has been a pleasure to work with him since the inception of I want to wish Brendan good the new Board of Management luck and our very best wishes in on 26th April and we are very his new role from September. grateful for his continued Brendan has been at the helm support of the College while in CCR for probably the most we seek a successor for this tumultuous 3 ½ years the College extremely demanding role. has ever been through. Whatever happens in the He has been incredibly committed future, Brendan will always be to CCR over that time and has remembered for being at the worked extremely hard in his role helm of CCR on one of its most as President. I want to thank him glorious ever days, 17th March personally for his great support 2015! and work through the past 4 months since 17th February, Ronnie Culliton. Brendan Feehan at the when it was first announced that 27th June 2017 RDS after CCR’s historic CCR may have to close. Leinster Cup win on St. Patrick’s Day 2015.

Roscrea Review 4 ROSCREA Review RONNIE CULLITON - A PROFILE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF MANAGEMENT OF CCR

Ronnie Culliton is a past pupil Facebook some months ago. of Cistercian College (Class of His leadership reminds me of 1984) as was his father, uncle, COMETH THE HOUR, the Cistercian philosophy of brothers and cousins and he COMETH THE MAN! education. has two sons in the College (Lúc in TY and Cuan in 2nd Year). This phrase was uttered by the “There are those who seek Ronnie was Chairman of The English bowler, Cliff Gladwin on knowledge for the sake of Action Group that successfully 20th December 1948 in Durban, knowledge; that is Curiosity. put together the proposals to the South Africa, when it appeared There are those who seek Abbot to keep the College open. that all was lost against South knowledge to be known by Africa before he came into bat. others; that is Vanity. He has been working in the He scored the winning run There are those who seek Fund Management Industry with the last ball of the match knowledge in order to serve; for over 26 years having started after the ball had struck him that is Love.” in regulation with the London on the thigh. Afterwards, in St Bernard of Clairvaux. Stock Exchange in 1990. He the dressing room, he proudly then worked for the two largest showed all comers the bruise Ronnie, we cannot thank you fund managers in Ireland and said “I told you, ‘cometh the enough for what you have done before joining Deutsche Asset hour, cometh the man’,” so far – our hopes and prayers Management in 2001. are with you in the weeks, While the Save CCR campaign months and years ahead. Go He took up his first Board position and group has many participants maire tú an chéad! of a regulated investment putting in enormous effort, there business firm in 2005 with is one man who has worked so Barclays and has now sat on the hard that gargantuan seems to Board of nine different regulated be the most appropriate word entities. Just before that in 2003 to describe his contribution. he had taken a few years out of His leadership throughout the the industry to act as Finance process is an example to us all. Director of an international on- For those of us who know Ronnie line travel business that floated Culliton for many, many years it on the AIM market in London in comes as no surprise. Whatever 2004 successfully raising $44m happens there is no doubt that in the process. all CCR men, past, present and hopefully future owe him an As well as acting as Director to enormous debt. these businesses, he provides lifestyle financial planning advice The concept of servant leader to business owners as well as is an ancient one and there are financial and tax advice to SMEs. 10 characteristics of critical He is a Fellow of the Institute importance. They are: listening, of Chartered Accounts in empathy, healing, awareness, Ireland (ACA) and is a Qualified persuasion, conceptualization, Financial Advisor(QFA). foresight, stewardship, Photo shows Ronnie and his commitment to the growth of wife Sharon with the Abbot’s OK, that’s the officially people, and building community. Cup which he won in 2013 and authorised potted biopic! Here’s Ronnie has displayed each and 2014. what Andrew Cody posted on every one in spadefuls.

Roscrea Review 5 ROSCREA Review CCR Board of Management

The new Board of Management held its first meeting in April. This photo was taken on the occasion.

Back row: Andrew Cody, Jack Kennedy, Jim McManus, Kevin Kelly. Front Row: Peter Murray, Bro. Malachy ocso, Ronnie Culliton (Chairman), Sinéad Crowley. Absent from the photo: College President Brendan Feehan and Catherine Smyth who were away on a school trip and Sr. Ann O’Donoghue IBVM whose appointment to the Board had not been finalized at the time.

Sr. Ann O’Donoghue IBVM Catherine Smyth

Roscrea Review 6 ROSCREA Review SPECIAL CC MEETING

As the campaign to save CCR was gathering momentum, Union President Pádraic Ó Máille called a special meeting of the Union’s Central Committee for 5th March 2017, and a very positive workmanlike meeting it was. This photograph was taken afterwards – in attendance were 12 former Union Presidents (including three Honorary Life Vice Presidents) and others who have given sterling service to the Union over the years.

Front row: Liam Spooner, Sean Murphy, Union President Pádraic Ó Máille, Johnny Dolan, John F. Walsh, College President Brendan Feehan, Union General Secretary and Alumni Officer Katherine Donovan.

Back row: Frank O’Meara, Frank Thompson, Conor Massey, Union Treasurer Pat Keane, Aidan McNulty, Pat O’Shea, Jim Keating, Pat Hanratty, Michael Houlihan, Gerald McCarthy, Michael McNamara.

CCR AND CONNACHT RUGBY

All of us, even those of us who are diehard Leinster supporters were delighted at Connacht’s success in winning the Pro 12 in 2016, and especially as it involved two CCR pastmen, Tiernan O’Halloran (Class of 2008) and Sean O’Brien (Class of 2013). Both men have established themselves at the heart of the current Connacht squad, indeed Tiernan has notched up a few caps for Ireland and we hope Sean will soon follow him. Tiernan O’Halloran Sean O’Brien

Roscrea Review 7 ROSCREA Review Dublin Branch Business Lunch 2016

The fourth of the branch’s Business Lunches took place on 4th March 2016 – on one of the last outings the Leinster Senior Cup had while in CCR’s hands. The Guest Speaker was former Union President John Sherry who regaled us with stories from his career in his own inimitable way.

A Business Lunch was scheduled for 3rd March this year, but in the wake of the announcement of 17th February it was decided it would be unfair to the speaker to address an audience who would only have one thing on their mind. The event has been re-scheduled for Friday 22nd September 2017.

Kevin Keegan (CCR 1983-’88), Maurice Phelan and Mark O’Byrne (both CCR 1987-’92).

Sean Byrne (CCR 1993-’99), Graham Ross John Sherry (CCR 1960-’65) entertaining the (CCR 1989-’95) and Michael Brannigan troops, with the special guest we hope will be (CCR 1987-’92). with us again in the not too distant future.

Roscrea Review 8 ROSCREA Review Abbot’s Cup 10th September 2016

On a fine Autumn day which allowed for good scoring no one was able to beat the 42 points of Eamon Maher, playing in the event for the first time in several years. It was a very popular victory – Eamon’s late brother Gerry played a huge role in organizing the day for many years.

Full results: Handicap Score 1st Prize Abbot’s Cup & Union President’s Prize Eamonn Maher 16 42 Pts 2nd Prize College President’s Prize Ronan Murray 13 41 Pts 3rd Prize Pat Sheedy 14 36 Pts CB Gross Prize Brian Murphy 9 38 Pts (29 Gross) Visitors Prize Sharon Culliton 36 Pts Student Prize Sam Murphy 5 32 Pts Longest Drive Niall Morrison Nearest the Pin Brian Duggan (Nine Inches!) Fr. Dermot O’Colmain Cup Richard O’Connell 36 Pts Class of 1986 Prize Pat Murrihy 12 36 Pts Class of 1976 Prize Fr. Enda Cunningham 9 34Pts Class of 1956 Prize Jim O’Shea 23 25 Pts This year’s event will be on 9th September and it is hoped that the reunions of the classes of 1967, 1992 and 1977 will swell the numbers participating!th Many thanks to Katherine Donovan and the boys of Transition This year’s event will be on 9 September and it is hoped that the reunions of the classes of 1967, 1992 and 1977 year for their help in organising the 2016 event. will swell the numbers participating! Many thanks to Katherine Donovan and the boys of Transition year for their help in organising the 2016 event.

Photo shows Dom Richard Purcell presenting the Abbot’s Cup to 2016 winner Eamon Maher.

Dom Richard Purcell presenting the Abbot’s Cup to 2016 winner Eamon Maher.

Roscrea Review 9 ROSCREA Review Dublin Dinner 2016

The 2016 Dublin Dinner was held illness which prevented him Mr. Brendan Feehan was unable in the Davenport Hotel on 22nd being our guest speaker in 2014, to attend, but Katherine Donovan October – the earlier date being and his SMACHT Academy goes attended and was presented chosen to avoid clashing with the from strength to strength. See with a One4All vouncher as an Autumn Rugby Internationals. www.omaille.ie expression of thanks for her work There was a lively gathering of as the Union Secretary. pastmen and guests, and we Little did we know at the time the were treated to a fantastic speech busy Spring he and others would There were several guests from by Union President Pádraic Ó have in 2017! There were fewer other Unions – see photo. Despite Maille, in which he encouraged, of the younger union members lower than usual numbers at the entertained and inspired us this year, which was unfortunate event the evening was enjoyed by in equal measure. Pádraic has as they always provide an added all and extremely well run by the obviously recovered from the atmosphere. The CCR President, staff at the Davenport.

Union President in fighting form as he gives the keynote speech at the 2016 Dublin Dinner.

Maeliosa Power (Clongowes Wood), David McCormack (St. Mary’s College), Stephen Tonge (CUS), Paddy Bolger (Gonzaga), Dublin Branch Chairman Sean O’Donnell, Union President Padraic Ó’Maille, Philip Treacy (Kings Hospital), Andrew Cree (Terenure College) and Sean O’Farrell (St. Michael’s College).

Former Union President Jim Keating has some advice for the new incumbent!

Aidan McNulty, Katherine Donovan and Stalwarts of the Class of ’68 Jim Ryan, Pat Seán O’Donnell. Keane, Michael Haugh, Jim Keating, Michael Coyle, Pete Hogan and Leo Crehan.

Roscrea Review 10 ROSCREA Review Pat O’Shea, Gerry Moloney and Declan Martin.

Pat and Joe O’Shea

Chairman Seán O’Donnell presenting a voucher to Union General Secretary Katherine Donovan. Mattie Keane, Tim Foley and John Taaffe, all Class of 2015

Brendan Phelan, Rory Burgess and Donal Taaffe.

Paul Murphy who took over as Dublin Branch Chairman in February 2017.

John McDonnell with the Union President. Michael Keane, Tony O’Grady and Don Harrington.

Roscrea Review 11 ROSCREA Review Dublin Golf 2016

As I write this preparations are the feeling and a plan was hatched Garvey prize, and spoke of his late well under way for the 2017 whereby John Cunningham’s brother’s love for this event and event, but last year’s should be wife drove from Roscommon to his commitment to the Union. recorded before we all forget Athlone with the Cup and the what happened that day. two Johns met up somewhere Congratulations to the other near Athlone and the Cup was winners: History will record that the brought to D4, much to the relief event was hosted in Elm Park of all concerned. They even had a Runner Up (Men): Golf Club, of which the then photo shoot of the transfer which Diarmuid O’Loughlin. Union President Mark Ryan is thanks to the wonders of modern an esteemed member, that 50 technology, was sent to me within Runner Up (Ladies): played golf and 45 attended the minutes to reassure me that all Mary Romeri. dinner, and a very good dinner it was well and that the West was was too. awake! Team Prize Winners: Graziano Romeri, Emilio There was drama, however at the On the course we had a wonderful Cirillo and Pat Coady. beginning and the end of the day. day’s golf. The course was in John Cunningham who had won excellent condition and there Team Prize Runners Up: the Matt Hyland trophy at his first was plenty of drama – Pat Coady, John Sherry, Thérèse attempt in 2015 couldn’t play due one of “the Nico’s gang” who Kilcline and Diarmuid to family commitments – indeed regularly support the outing O’Loughlin. those family commitments saw and who played what he called him at Dublin Airport early “the round of his life” came in Longest Drive: that morning and a rendezvous with 39 points! Well done, Pat! Jim McDonnell. with this scribe near Junction Alas it only qualified him for the 11 on the M50 was arranged. Visitors’ prize! Nearest the pin: Alas, somebody forgot to pack Brendan Phelan. the trophy and when John and The big trophies went as follows: I spoke at about 8.30 a.m. we All told it was a wonderful day realised we had a crisis on our Matt Hyland Cup: – looking forward to another on hands. Ronan Whitty 36 points 23 June 2017! (Count back) Pádraic Ó Máille has spoken recently about the can do Noel Windle Cup: approach of CCR folk. This was Thérèse Kilcline a case of ‘Desperate situations need desperate remedies’ of ‘how Peter Garvey Trophy: the –- can we get the Cup from Mark Ryan 36 points. Roscommon to Dublin?!” Enter that man of many parts, John We don’t really need to tell the Sherry, who lives in Galway, but world about the mix up that would be heading to Dublin for occurred, and had prizes initially the golf. awarded to the wrong people – it showed the importance of A quick phone call was made, avoiding slow play, marking but there was no reply. Typically, cards carefully and scrutinising the Sherrys realised there was them with absolute diligence! a missed call and John rang me And of a forgiving attitude! back. “Have you left home yet John?”, I asked. “ Yes, but only Sean Garvey made the Dublin Branch Chairman Seán O’Donnell addressing the just” was the answer. Relief was presentation of the Dom Peter gathering.

Roscrea Review 12 ROSCREA Review Team Prize Runners Up, Thérèse Kilcline, John Union President Mark Ryan presents the Matt Sherry and Diarmuid O’Loughlin with Union Hyland trophy to Ronan Whitty as Dublin President Mark Ryan. Branch Chairman Seán O’Donnell looks on.

Dublin Branch Chairman Seán O’Donnell presents the Dom Peter Garvey trophy to Mark Ryan.

John Cunningham, the 2015 winner of the Matt Hyland Cup hands it back to John Sherry at a point somewhere West of the Shannon. I always thought each of these men was outstanding in his field, but this is surely taking it a bit too far!

Pat Coady receives the Visitors’ Prize from Union President Mark Ryan.

As ever we are extremely grateful to those who sponsored the event: Accenture, Belleek Pottery Ennis, Byrne Wallace Solicitors, Comans’ Wholesale Ltd., Commtech, Elm Park Golf and Sports Club, Goldcore, Gowan Group, Graphprint, Mark Ryan, Mason Hayes and Curran Matheson, Mazars, Michael McNulty & Co. Accountants, Nico’s Italian Restaurant, O’Callaghan Hotels, O’Connell’s Restaurant, Paddywagon Tours and Three Rock Capital Management. All told it was a wonderful day – looking forward to another Mark Ryan presents the Ladies Runner up on 23rd June 2017 when we will have sensational prizes prize to Mary Romeri. sponsored by Ronan Cahir of Giftvenue.com!

Roscrea Review 13 ROSCREA Review London Dinner 2016

This group photo was taken on the occasion of the London Branch Dinner in February 2016. ​ Back Row: Tim O’Dwyer, Pat O’Grady, Tony Bennett, Fergal Keane, Barry Bennett, Donald Gallivan, Dermot Hurley, Peter Murphy, Jim Egan, Katherine Donovan, John O’Shea, Manus Moran. Front Row:​ Brian Flynn, Dom Richard, Kevin Flanagan, Jim Keating.

It was with deep regret that we all heard of the sudden death of Kevin O’Flanagan last October.

Two of the stars of the 2015 and 2016 teams, Alan Tynan and Fineen Wycherley were part of the Irish team at the recent U-20 Rugby World Cup in Georgia. The photos show them in action in the opening match against Italy.

Alan Tynan Fineen Wycherley

Roscrea Review 14 ROSCREA Review FRANKIE BERGIN A TRIBUTE In October 2016 the entire Cup, the College’s concert and Mount Saint Joseph competition to reward musical community, and the town of performance. Once again, she Roscrea, lost a loyal servant put in the hours in advance, and a true friend. All the ensuring that the entrants were posthumous clichés ring up to scratch and would give true about our beloved Miss the competition their best shot. Bergin; she was “a one off”, There were no short cuts with “larger than life”, and “a Miss Bergin. Her duties changed lady to her fingertips.” In a as Ireland changed. Older past school staff well-populated students recall her playing the with characters, Frankie had organ at Benediction in the presence, enthusiasm and College Chapel on Sundays. boundless energy. Most of all she was kind and she was Of all the varied school activities fun. in which Frankie was involved, the annual opera is perhaps the For five decades from her arrival one that will forever be associated in 1963, Frankie was at the centre with her. By the time I came to the who was the lynchpin, overseeing of the performing arts in the College in 1997 photographs of the programme of rehearsals, the College. She taught elocution and Frankie with the casts of different organisation of costumes and piano to students individually, productions filled the massive the myriad other things that are and was hugely invested in showcase outside the Big Study required to make a performance their success. In the lead up to Hall. She had a particular love of happen. examinations, she laid on extra the Gilbert and Sullivan operettas classes in the evenings to ensure and the musicals of Rodgers and In addition to her hard work, that the best possible results were Hammerstein, but was not averse Frankie’s shrewdness was to the achieved. I am told that in the to experimenting, venturing into fore in getting the opera to the Sixties she established a music the world of Andrew Lloyd Weber standard she required. The stage appreciation group for the boys. with Joseph and the Amazing managers were always hand- This involved listening to classical Technicolor Dreamcoat. But picked for their practicality and music and researching the lives she returned again and again to strong personalities. It was a of the composers. Frankie settled her old favourites, The Pirates role that appealed to those who on the Record Society as its name of Penzance, The Mikado, wanted a ticket out of study, but the then college president Fr. Oklahoma! and South Pacific. and Frankie understood that Patrick insisted on giving it a more As soon as a new academic year perfectly. If rehearsals were Victorian flavour, referring to it as had begun a notice would appear not being taken seriously the the Gramophone Society. Frankie on the door of Frankie’s room doyenne of the opera was not was also in charge of the Junior naming the show, the parts to above doing a dramatic walk Choir which sang at High Mass in be filled and the times for voice out in which she would tell the the Monastery. She collaborated testing and auditions. Ever assembled cast that they could in this endeavour with her friend, generous with her time, Frankie put on the show themselves. On the late Fr. Anthony Finnegan. would meet with prospective one occasion she went home They shared an interest in music actors in advance of the auditions, and said she was not coming and a mischievous sense of accompanying them on the piano. back. Needless to say, a dumb- humour, and Fr. Anthony could Coordinating a diverse group of struck cast sent its emissaries to also be depended on to stop the schoolboys to perform a musical apologise and rehearsals went messing that might otherwise was a mammoth undertaking. without a hitch after that. On the have occurred while Frankie was In some years there was help night of a performance Frankie at the piano. Each year Frankie from an outside producer and would take her place as conductor organised the Doctor Sherry choreographer, but it was Frankie at the front of the stage with great

Roscrea Review 15 ROSCREA Review FRANKIE BERGIN A TRIBUTE (Continued) elegance and effortless poise. But be mildly subversive, listening Baking was an extension of before she did so, she would call intently to a tale of school life her generosity, as the cakes the cast together backstage and while smoking a cigarette. A were invariably for others. lead a prayer to Our Lady of Good shrewd observer of the boys Antique auctions brought out Success. Expectations were not and of College affairs generally, an unexpected commercial side lessened because it was a school her love of her work and of the in Frankie and she enjoyed the production. If anything did not Monastery was plain to see. banter that went with them. She go to plan the performers would diplomatically supported both be told the next day. In one of Given all the time and effort Tipperary and Offaly in hurling these debriefings an irate Frankie Frankie devoted to her job in the and was an avid Manchester observed: “I was horrified to learn College, it is amazing to reflect on United fan. A brilliant mimic, that last night several members the contribution she also made she could impersonate voices of the Junior Chorus left the to the town of Roscrea. She was and body language with ease, dressing room and went to the the organist and choir director in but never with malice. She was shop at the interval. When you do St Cronan’s Church, where she tremendously sociable and had that you break the illusion!” played at countless weddings, the ability to make any encounter communions, confirmations and feel like a special occasion. Frankie must have been a funerals in addition to the weekly striking addition to the College Masses. In 2012 her contribution In the final three years of her life, of the 1960s, perhaps the only to the parish of Roscrea was Frankie lived at Mount Carmel woman who was not a nun or a acknowledged with the bestowal Nursing Home in Roscrea. It member of the domestic staff. of a Papal honour, the Bene was a big wrench to leave her As an independent woman with Merenti Medal. Frankie’s faith independent life, her job in the her own career she was also was very important to her and College and the home in which unusual in the Ireland of that she was thrilled by this award. she took so much pride. She time. Past students who got to A community person to her settled in time and had many know her, whether in 1963 or in core, her activities in the town visitors. She retained her sharp the second decade of the twenty- extended well beyond her memory and the end came first century, speak of the same important role in Church music. quickly. Her funeral, at which Miss Bergin, a kind and talented Frankie was a founder member the current students sang, played lady who loved young people of the Roscrea Musical Society instruments and along with past and valued sincerity and loyalty and centrally involved in its students and others formed a in others. There was something productions down through the guard of honour, was a fitting exotic about Frankie with her decades. She was also an active tribute to her long, energetic and perfect pronunciation and her member (and former Lady productive life. beautiful manners, but she was Captain) of Roscrea Golf Club. In also incredibly down to earth. She 2013 her service to the town was Frankie made an enormous thought it was hilarious when a recognised at the Roscrea People contribution to the College. One student assumed she was “the of the Year Awards. Frankie also can point to the many obvious laundry lady” because the bags taught elocution and music in her triumphs she had with shows and of washing were piled up outside home to generations of people choirs and the other public things her office for collection. from Roscrea town and I am she did. But Frankie the extrovert reliably informed that this took also had another side, a discreet Frankie had a special relationship place under the watchful gaze of one where she befriended and with the boys she taught and an army of stuffed toys. supported boys who were away those she directed in the operas. from home and in need of Her focus was always on the task Apart from music, Frankie’s kindness and a chat. She was a at hand but a concern for the hobbies included baking, great lady whose warmth, talent welfare of the student was never attending auctions and watching and innate goodness enriched far below the surface. If you were sport. She pursued each of these many lives. struggling in any way you had interests with her characteristic Mark Coen (CCR 1997-2003) a friend in Frankie. She could energy and enthusiasm.

Roscrea Review 16 ROSCREA Review South West Branch Dinner 6TH MAY 2016 As ever, the South West Branch Dinner was a most enjoyable occasion, ably hosted by Gerald McCarthy with Conor Brady and Union President Mark Ryan as special guests. Once again it was held in the lovely Sundays Well Tennis Club. Below are a collection of photographs taken on the night by Peter Sommerfield.

The Branch recently held another Dinner – a report will appear in the next Review. Union President Mark Ryan and Jim Keating.

Conor and Carmel O’Hara and Margaret O’Shea. Gerald McCarthy and Brendan Hyland.

Jim Keating, Kevin Morrissey and Billy O’Neill. Tom Coughlan and Katherine Donovan.

Mary and Maureen O’Neill. Mick O’Neill and Aidan McNulty.

Roscrea Review 17 ROSCREA Review REUNIONS!

REUNION OF CLASS OF The Jubilarians were also delighted that the sSnior Dean of 1956, Fr. Ambrose, now aged 90 years and as 1956 sprightly as ever honoured the occasion by celebrating a Mass of Thanksgiving in the College Chapel: at which The Class of 1956 celebrated their Diamond Jubilee at all deceased classmates RIP were remembered. Also, the College on Union weekend 9th-11th Sept 2016. It those who were unable to attend and those who were was their 5th Reunion get together starting with their not well or in hospital together with all members of 25th in 1981, followed by their 40th, 50th, 55th and the families of classmates were remembered. now the 60th. They are actively now planning their 62nd get together in 2018, God Willing! To be greeted and welcomed at the Guesthouse after the Mass by 3 former Abbots, Laurence, Ambrose and A long discussion took place at their Banquet Dinner Kevin together with Fr Abbot Richard was considered which was held in the Guesthouse on the Saturday a tremendous honour by all and an occasion never evening on whether they should wait a further 5 or to be forgotten. Unfortunately Fr Eanna who was 10 years but prudence prevailed and they are looking Junior Dean at that time was unable to join them. The forward to Sept 2018. Jubilarians also felt honoured to have the facilities of the Guesthouse, it’s ornate and historic sitting room To add to the uniqueness of the occasion the 3 former and inner dining room made available to them. All House Captains led by Pat O’Shea together with Dr. were delighted to have individual en suite rooms…. Donal Monks and Dr. Michael Meagher were not only who could have asked for better!! in attendance but that they have attended all previous reunions: Michael Meagher travelling over from During the speeches Dom Kevin, acting as guest London and Donal from Gravesend, Kent. Terry Ashe master, was formally thanked for laying on such a who has been a consistent attendee since the 25th most enjoyable function. Their appreciation was also travelled from Glasgow for their celebration extended to the Guesthouse staff, Eileen and Trish and gourmet chef Mark.

Highlight of the celebration All enjoyed the craic, banter and reminiscences late into the night. Some key questions were asked “Why While some of the guys played in Abbot’s Cup Golf do we have such a bond with the College? Why do Competition, others availed of the opportunity to we have such an appreciation of our Alma Mater and tour the College Campus developments facilitated by the monastic community? Why have we come back the College President Mr Brendan Feehan and Union to celebrate 5 Anniversaries?”. Answer: There is no Secretary Katherine Donovan, The reception and tour doubt it is the ethos as such which is imbued with a by the President was much appreciated by all while spiritual monastic culture and tradition that becomes others wandered through the peaceful ambience of the infectious and impacts us all in many different ways! woods: the real highlight was having Dom Richard, In summary it is the Jubilarians’ wish that there Abbot of Mount Saint Joseph to meet, greet and dine at will always be a living monastic presence about the the Dinner on the Friday evening. Their special guests College in the years to come and that they are looking for the dinner on the Saturday night were Dom Kevin forward to returning in 2 years time, God Willing. It Daly and Dom Ambrose Farrington, Bolton Abbey. is suggested on the next occasion that some members of their group may wish to tour and view the Abbey’s For the record Dom Kevin was a former prefect priceless collection of stained glass windows which are of a Junior table and Junior Dor in 1953 and was portrayed in “Lumen Christi” edited by Dom Laurence subsequently President of the College for many years. Walsh, OCSO.

Roscrea Review 18 ROSCREA Review Vault, helped to endure the sometimes tedium of life SPUTNIKS, MOLOTOV at CCR. So it was when College President Fr. Aidan COCKTAILS AND GREEN announced in the Refectory at breakfast in December 1956 that John Landy the Australian favourite had POSTBOXES - won the 1500 metres in the Melbourne Olympics there was a muted response. When he realised his mistake THE 55 YEAR REUNION OF THE and announced the winner was Ronnie Delany we had a wonderful collective thrill which reverberates CLASS OF 1955 - ’60. to this day. That same year we had a more immediate reminder of outside events when two Hungarian boys A wintry afternoon in mid December 2015 saw 21 arrived in the school, refugees from the Uprising and members of the class arrive at the appointed time with the Soviet invasion. They had initially been housed almost military precision, in the College entrance hall. in an Army camp in Knockalisheen, County Clare. Then I knew that band of brothers, the class of 1955- Conditions in the camp were poor and Sean Peyton 60, was not yet ready to stand down its colours. I had who visited there at the boys’ invitation, now recalls encountered Tom Fletcher and John Casey in Roscrea this visit and concurs. They were funded by the Red town looking slightly lost like myself, but in time for a Cross, as were two others in Mount Mellerary and two warming coffee in a local pub. Some like John Joyce in Multyfarnham Agricultural College. These were (Birr) and James Hamill (Ferbane) rolled in from streetwise lads, one of whom could easily be imagined the neighbourhood. Others had driven from further lurking in a Budapest alley, Molotov cocktail in hand, afield like John Kenny from East Cork. Of the 51 class waiting to encounter a Soviet tank. They stayed about members, 5 had passed away: Sean Gohery, Declan one year and as far as I know emigrated to Canada, O’Shea, Johnny Lang, John Toomey and Bernard like many of the others at Knockalisheen. This episode D’Arcy. We remember them with fondness. May they at Roscrea resonates to this day, as the first of the rest in peace. (Sadly, since our reunion, two more of our refugees from Syria are about to arrive. And Ireland number, Kevin McDonagh and Paddy McMahon have has had refugees before, as far back as the Huguenots joined them ar slí na fírinne.) Five were untraceable and Palatines in the seventeenth/eighteenth centuries, despite the best efforts of the organising committee. and in recent decades Vietnamese, Kosovans and We were treated to welcome refreshments in the Rec Iraqis. Plus ça change. Hall and a viewing of the Leinster Schools Senior Rugby Cup, and the All Ireland Hurling Senior Schools The variety of careers and interests of the class was a C Cup by Katherine Donovan. Then we viewed a very happy and eclectic mix: from a poet (Eamonn Grennan) interesting if limited video of the College. Then the to priests (the much tavelled Norman Jennings and group photo with Katherine unveiling her new camera! Ray Collier, also Tommy Breen and Willy Ryan), Tom Enright posed like a seasoned politician. The rest bankers (Paddy McMahon, Kevin McDonagh, John posed in their usual self-deprecating manner. And then Casey and Vincent Dooley) publicans (Tom Fletcher we had a nostalgic tour of the College conducted by and James Ryan), medics (Sean Murphy, Michael College President Brendan Feehan. We were grateful Behan and twin brothers Hugh and Cathal Bredin), for his courtesy and forbearance in dealing with our a dentist (John Kenny), an Aer Lingus executive many questions. Then on to the County Arms, Birr for (Anthony Flaherty) , a commercial pilot (Joe Moran dinner. The Lord Abbot, Dom Richard kindly accepted under the vast skies of East Africa), a solicitor (Tom our invitation to join us and updated us on life in the Enright), a teacher (Francis O’Toole), a Garda (Michael Monastery in a relaxed, good humoured way. Duggan) and never to forget the farmers (Liam Burke and Jimmy Bergin). But not by work alone doth man In many ways this reunion was more enjoyable live: side interests were also notable: John Joyce is than previous ones. Maybe we did more Chairman of the Birr Georgian Society, underlying his catching, up especially with those for whom it was interest in one of Ireland’s best preserved Georgian their first reunion. Arriving to CCR as callow youths in towns and John Lennon represented Ireland and won September 1955, we were blissfully unaware of events a prize at an international conference on Philately in shaping the world around us. World War 2, was Paris. I always thought that Ireland was the land of only ten years gone by, but its after-effects lingered, green post (pillar) boxes but John informed us that as they do to this day. The Treaty of Austria had just the original postboxes in Victorian England were dark been signed, with the Soviet Union and the Western green! And the first effective postal system in Ireland Allies in process of withdrawal from that country. was introduced by, of all people, Oliver Cromwell. The fascination with, and success of our generation Tom Enright became TD for Laois-Offaly for many in athletics e.g. Sean Murphy in the All Ireland Pole years: was that a full time job or a side interest?

Roscrea Review 19 ROSCREA Review And then it was recalled we were all survivors of the like Irish, English, and Mathematics. And after all Influenza Epidemic in 1957 when all except a handful that, the interminable wait to sit subjects like Applied of the circa 250 student body were laid low. That was Mathematics. Then it was out on the front steps to also the year when the Russians moved ahead of the say adios to members of the Community, including Americans in the space race. We watched fascinated, the then Fr. Colmcille, Dean of Studies. It was about through the windows of the Farmers’ Dormitory then we heard news that a relatively unknown Senator as Sputnik 1 arced it’s elliptical path through the called Kennedy had won the crucial West Virginia night sky. The outstanding memory of 1958 was the Primary. The Cuban Missile Crisis, Dallas, Vietnam 50th anniversary of the foundation of CCR and the and the Troubles in Northern Ireland were all ahead corresponding reunion, which had been delayed by in the relatively near future; much further down the 3 years, held during the Hallowe’en break. Months road were international/national issues like the Twin earlier the then Bursar Fr. Edmund had marshalled Towers, Climate Change, the TROIKA in Ireland. But a squad of student stamp lickers in the Rec Hall to we young men, no longer callow youths, were not deal with the avalanche of post required for the event. concerned about and did not foresee any of that as the As a considerable number of letters were returned it well filled taxi to Roscrea railway station wheezed its appears the Past Student data base was not as good way out through the eagle topped gates. as the current one. In our final year a small landmark in the history of the College was passed, but had Cathal Bredin (1955-‘60) for the organising committee: been forgotten by many of us. The Class of 1960 was John Kenny, Paddy McMahon and Will Hanly. the first to take the Leaving Cert oral examination in Irish and so the first class to take an oral State exam Editor’s note: two men mentioned above died during of any kind in the history of CCR. This was held in the 2016, Kevin McDonagh on 24 January and Paddy Front Parlour and conducted by Mr. John Williams McMahon on 22 May 2016. and the extern. Then there was the written exam, with the accompanying tensions of the major subjects

Members of the Class of 1960 who gathered for a Reunion in December 2015 Front Row: Joe Moran, Sean Murphy, John Casey, Kevin McDonagh RIP Second Row: Norman Jennings, Tom Fletcher, Billy Hanly, Tom Enright, James Hamill, Andy O’Flaherty, Cathal Bredin - Third Row: Noel Costigan, Michael Carey - Fourth Row: John Kenny, Sean Peyton, John Joyce Fifth Row: Francis O’Toole, John Lennon, Paddy McMahon RIP Sixth Row: John Keoghan, Anthony Whelan

Roscrea Review 20 ROSCREA Review It was a great honour to have Dom Laurence Walsh 50 YEARS ON… OCSO celebrating Mass on our special half-century THE CCR CLASS OF ‘65 REUNION reunion, and he conducted a beautiful ceremony that stirred the emotions and rekindled fond memories of On Saturday 26th September 2015, some 25 members our student days. Addressing us as “Lads”, he spoke of of the Class of 1965 came together from various parts the readings he had selected for us, in particular the of Ireland – and further afield – to celebrate our 50th Acts of the Apostles where St Peter quotes the prophet reunion at the College. It was a marvellous, truly Joel: “Your young men shall see visions and your old memorable gathering for all concerned. men shall dream dreams”.

We were joined by four special guests: Lord Abbot He went on: “50 years ago in the very same chapel we Rev. Dom Richard Purcell OCSO; Rev. Dom Laurence would have seen and mulled over visions, stored them Walsh OCSO; former teacher John Shanahan; and in our hearts and brought them to the classroom, to Gerry Hayes, representing the College as current the study hall, to the pitches, and many of them we President Brendan Feehan was attending the London would have carried with us throughout our lives.” How PPU Dinner that same evening. true.

On arrival we assembled in the former science/billiard Drawing our attention to the stained glass images of room, now known as the Centenary Room, for a meet the beautiful Clarke Studio windows and the striking and greet reception. Wow! It was hilarious to see the Opus Sectile Stations of the Cross, he wondered what reactions as we went around the room – some faces better place to celebrate the memories and the great were as instantly recognisable as they were back in joy and thanksgiving of coming together 50 years on. 1965 while others were utterly changed, eyebrows Our Mass, he said, was a celebration of the visions furrowing as people struggled to put a name to the of 1965 – perhaps dimmed by the experiences of life, face. perhaps matured in an even more wonderful way.

It was wonderful, and so fitting, that our former teacher In the Prayers of the Faithful, Des Purcell then referred John Shanahan was there to share the occasion with to those who could not be with us and I am sure I was us. It is a measure of the man that he slipped me a not alone in being deeply touched as he individually bottle of whiskey at one stage, apologising profusely remembered our 10 deceased former classmates. that he could not attend the dinner but asking me to share the bottle with “the boys”. When Mass was over I had the honour of thanking Dom Laurence for celebrating Mass and for his inspirational Gerry Hayes then took us on a tour of the campus, homily on the occasion of our historic milestone which as you’d expect is a very different environment reunion. Who more appropriate than someone who, from the one we remember. Overall there is a much having attended the college for five years, went on to warmer, more homely atmosphere with huge spend a further 69 years in the Monastery. A Roscrea improvements both in the classroom, dormitory and man for all of 74 years and scarcely a sign of wear and hang-out areas of the college. Some of today’s facilities tear on him! God Bless you, Father Laurence – and – the pool, the technology and so much more – we thank you again. could only have dreamed of back then. From the Chapel we went to the front steps for a group I slipped out to collect the Mass leaflets from my car photo, and from there we went on to the County Arms and, to my delight, spotted none other than Fr. Eanna in Birr where we had a wonderful evening of dinner, a approaching from the monastery. We greeted one few jars and a great deal of reminiscing and recalling another, and when I said my name he immediately good memories. replied “Ah, Chill Mhantain!” A mind that is as razor- sharp as it always was, even now that he’s in his early Our guest of honour, Dom Richard Purcell, spoke to us 90s. about the challenges facing the Order and the College itself – with depleted numbers of vocations, the Order The campus tour was halted so we could all say itself faces difficulties in sustaining five monasteries our hellos to Fr. Eanna and take a wonderful group in Ireland, while the College likewise faces many photo in the recreation hall – one of the highlights of challenges including declining numbers and changing the day. Gerry then continued the tour, after which societal attitudes. we proceeded to the College Chapel for a Mass of Remembrance in honour of our deceased classmates, On a brighter note, he also pointed out that Roscrea 10 in all. continues to punch well above its weight in academia,

Roscrea Review 21 ROSCREA Review music, debating as well as on the hurling and rugby pitches in particular. The historic winning of a first ever Leinster Schools Senior Rugby Cup earlier this year was a huge shot in the arm in terms of confidence and self-esteem for the College, management, pupils, staff, past pupils, friends and family – all concerned! It may even mark a turning point for the school – let’s hope so.

To round off the evening, our old classmate John Sherry, in customary style, delivered a brilliantly researched, thought-out and entertaining account of life in the college as it was ‘back then’. John had us all in stitches as he described some of the antics the lads got up to all those years ago.

A great day among old friends, who could ask for more? Thank you to my fellow members of the organising committee Aidan McNulty, Jim Coffey and Des Purcell, A Policeman’s Lot is not a Happy One and to everyone who made it so special. John McHugh who played the sergeant in the 1964 Frank Cullen production of The Pirates of Penzance (and later joined the Gardaí) with two of his “officers”, John Sherry and Aidan McNulty.

Jimmy Coffey, Eugene O’Sullivan and Aidan McNulty with An tAthar Éanna and minder.

John Shanahan, Bob Greaney, Bart Scanlan and John Sherry.

Front row: Paddy Kennedy, Vincent McIntyre, Dom Laurence, Shaun Wrafter, Niall Wrafter, Brian Lillis, Michael McNulty, Eugene O’Sullivan.

Liam Kennedy, John Feehan, Andy Lyons, Frank Cullen, Middle Row: John Moloney, Michael Murray, John McHugh, Dom Richard, John Sherry, Aidan McNulty and Des Milo Butler, Andy Lyons, Des Purcell, Frank Cullen. Purcell. Back Row: Bart Scanlan, John Feehan, Phil Sheedy, Michael McCarthy, Aidan McNulty, Liam Kennedy, Jimmy Coffey, John Sherry, Bob Greaney, Willie Dillon.

Roscrea Review 22 ROSCREA Review 40 YEARS ON… Naughton (Dublin), Sean Tunney (Dublin) John Lynch (Kildare), John Dundon (Limerick), Ciaran C.C.R. CLASS REUNION OF 1976 McMahon (Dublin) and David Culliton (Kilkenny). 10TH SEPTEMBER 2016 We all then convened at the Abbey Court Hotel, The class of 1976 met for their 40 year Reunion on Nenagh for dinner at 8.00pm, where we were joined 10th September 2016. On a sad note, just two weeks by another classmate, Jim Murphy of PREM Group before the reunion, we learned of the sudden death Hotels. of our classmate Pat Ennis, formerly of Clara, but living in Tullamore. Pat had intended to attend the The master of ceremonies for the night was our house reunion, and many recalled the entertainment he captain, John Phelan, the youngest man in the class, provided at our 25 Year Reunion back in 2001. Pat and the one who was responsible tracking down was a full-time musician based in Tullamore and everyone and making arrangements for the event, his passing is deeply regretted by wife, Deirdre, and assisted by Tim O’Colmain and John Neylon. John children, twins Ryan and Amy as well his family and thanked everyone for coming, especially those from friends. abroad, Johnny Coughlan, the North American Ice Cream magnate from Vancouver, Dr. John “Spud” The reunion weekend started well with six of the Murphy from Toronto and Dr. Paul “Chicken” Irwin class joining in the Abbot’s Cup competition. from Crewe, England. While we didn’t feature on the podium, Fr. Enda Cunningham fared best of the group which included The proceedings eventually repaired to the residents’ Paul Irwin, Sean Tunney, John Murphy, John lounge and continued well into the early hours, with Harding and John Neylon. the main source of entertainment coming from our resident poet, the “Rustic Boy” himself, Michael The main group met at the college in the afternoon Creagh from Rathdowney. for a Sherry Reception in the Billiard Room where we mingled with other groups and some of our We remembered absent classmates who for one former teachers including John Shanahan and the or other reason couldn’t attend but sent on best late Hugh McDonnell. wishes for the night; Cormac O’Sullivan (Kilkenny), Kieran Burns (Bradford, England), Mike Carr This was followed by a tour of the college, which (Ennis Co. Clare – recuperating from a quadruple brought back fond memories to all. 24 (out of a by-pass), Liam Dalton (Mullingar), Kieran Dwyer possible 55) of us assembled on the front college (Dublin), Brian Sheppard (Tipperary), Christy Daly steps for our “Class of 76” photograph; John Neylon (Tullamore), Risteard Mulcahy (Youghal, Co. Cork) (Dublin), John Harding (Dublin), Gerry Carthy and Tom McCutcheon (Latteragh, Co Tipperary) (Longford), Gerry Walsh (Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny), and those we couldn’t contact, not that we didn’t try! Paul Irwin (Crewe, England), John Coughlan (Vancouver, Canada), Ned Sheary (Nenagh), Looking forward already to the 50 Year Reunion in Sean Reidy (Athlone), Pat Healy (Dublin), John 2026. Phelan (Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny), Tim O’Colmain (Dublin), John Murphy (Toronto, Canada), Nicky Finally, we remembered in our thoughts and prayers Greene (Limerick), Joe Nolan (Clonmel), Pat our classmates who are no longer with us: Liam Hassett (Derry), Hugh Dodd (Bray), Michael Creagh Byrne, Paul Lynch, Bill Shaw, Shane O’Leary, and (Rathdowney, Co. Laois), Fr. Enda Cunningham, Pat Ennis, and their families and friends. (Parish Priest, Westland Row, Dublin), John

Roscrea Review 23 ROSCREA Review 40 YEARS ON… THE CCR ‘CLASS OF ‘76’ REUNION

Front Row: John Neylon, John Harding, Gerry Carthy, Gerry Walsh, Paul Irwin, John Coughlan, Edward (Ned) Sheary, Sean Reidy, Pat Healy.

Middle Row: John Phelan, Tim O’Colmain, John Murphy, Nicholas Greene, Joe Nolan, Pat Hassett, Hugh Dodd, Michael Creagh.

Back Row: Fr. Enda Cunningham, John Naughton, Sean Tunney, John Lynch, John Dundon, Ciaran McMahon, David Culliton.

John Phelan, John Coughlan (all the way Paul Irwin, Gerry Carthy and Joe Nolan from Vancouver), Gerry Walsh & John Neylon.

Roscrea Review 24 ROSCREA Review CLASS OF ’95

It is often noted that there is a certain bond between past men of Roscrea, it is hard to quantify and cannot be described in words alone, as it is something nurtured and implanted in one’s personality by mutual experience and a shared value of the unique character building that CCR provides. Time does not diminish that bond but invariably makes it stronger.

Planning and facilitating a 20 year reunion is a lot more difficult than it initially seems! There a few critical factors which will ultimately determine eventual success or perceived failure. Firstly you will need an organizing committee made up of members of your year with the specific skills necessary to pull it off. It does help if one of your classmates owns a hotel as you will need a venue so Conor Loughnanne of The County Arms became a de facto committee member. You will then need a facilitator, someone who can motivate the committee and disapprove of the deluge of ridiculous ideas, a former House Captain and someone with conference calling facilities suits the job perfectly, step forward Dara Harrington.

It then helps to have someone with an in-depth knowledge of the dark arts of social media and digital networking, if that person also helped to organize the previous year’s reunion, that’s a bonus - thank you Graham Ross! Finally you will need, for want of a better word, a domestique, someone to beg, blackmail or demand your special guests to turn up on the day - I took that one on by default!

There were 69 members of the class of ‘95 during our 5 year tenure in Roscrea. Our primary aim was to get as many as possible back after 20 years. What amazed us most was how many now worked and lived abroad, approximately a quarter. There were unfortunately some that we just couldn’t find, no matter how hard we searched. In the end, about half found their way back for the weekend.

John Delaney, James Fleming, Ross Hennesy, Patrick O’Byrne, Graham Ross, Conor Cahill, Philip Mcguiness, Pat Cass, Robert Smyth, John Phelan, Dara Harrington, John Dwyer, Eugene Wallace, Eddie Callagahn, Paul Davey, Peter McGrane, Eoin Doyle, Fintan Cox, Keith Murphy, David Roe, Derek Fogarty and Michael Farrell.

Roscrea Review 25 ROSCREA Review Like all good weekends, things kicked off on the Friday demand and our honoured guest, Conor Massey, night, meeting in the County Arms for drinks, food representing his son and our friend Zebedee who we and a heavy dose of nostalgia that lasted well into the lost in 2008. night. The following day the Class of ‘95 met on the steps of CCR for the first time in 20 years, and were What followed was a culinary tour de force, an subsequently joined by a group of our former teachers, absolutely outstanding seven course service of Dan Smyth, Norman Davey, Hugh McDonnell, Pat Michelin star quality and execution. Conor Loughnane Kilbane and Brendan O’Rourke for a drinks reception had promised us a memorable meal, and he and in what we once called the Rec Hall. the staff succeeded in a most exemplary fashion in providing that. After dinner speeches began in tandem Once assembled we were met by the current College with dessert and coffee. President, Brendan Feehan who gave us an excellent presentation on the contemporary running of the Conor started proceedings, welcoming us warmly to school. This was followed by a truly memory invoking his home town and portraying his gratitude in having tour of the school’s current facilities, which made us the opportunity to host the reunion. Graham thanked all wish we had been born a quarter of a century later! our guests and introduced Frank Thompson who caught the moment perfectly talking eloquently about Then the obligatory pictures with the Leinster Senior what it means to be a pastman of Roscrea. Then, I was Cup followed by a stroll around the College and fortunate to have the honour of making a presentation Monastery grounds. Fading daylight saw everyone to Mr Conor Massey in memory of his son Zebedee. returned safely to the County Arms for yet more drinks What followed was a poignant and heartfelt acceptance and nostalgia - we were just warming up! speech by Conor, which received a standing ovation by all present. At 7.30 we made our way to a private dining room in the beautifully preserved old section of the Hotel. Dinner finished and we proceeded to talk, laugh and We were joined by our special guests for the evening; toast our way into the early hours of the morning, The Abbot Dom Richard Purcell, Katherine Donovan with everyone committing to the next reunion without representing the College, Union President Frank reservation! Thompson, Eddie O’Sullivan who had graciously Paul Davey accepted our invitation as requested by popular

John Thompson and Fintan Cox with the Leinster Cup.

Roscrea Review 26 ROSCREA Review classmate Dermot Sheridan, who died tragically in CLASS OF 2003 REUNION 2009. In July 2014 the class of 2003 inaugurated a new After dinner we moved into a courtyard adjacent to the Roscrea tradition – the 11 year reunion. Organised by function room and the conversation continued, more Daniel Grandjean with the assistance of Damien Lynch natural and relaxed now that reintroductions and the and Richard Phelan, it took place in Langton’s Hotel, meal were out of the way. Eventually we made our way Kilkenny. All members of the class were energetically into Langton’s Bar where there was much straining tracked down and notified of the reunion, including of the vocal chords in an effort to be heard above the those who make a point of shunning social media. On music. the night 24 pastmen presented themselves for pre- dinner drinks at Langton’s. Brendan McIntyre was given a hero’s welcome when he arrived and informed us of the birth of his son, Brendan McIntyre had the small matter of the arrival Daniel. Meanwhile Raph Keane mingled with the non- of his first child to delay him elsewhere. Small groups Roscrea crowd on the dance floor. The CCR men were formed in the bar as familiar faces drifted in. It among the last to leave the venue, at which point the transpires that people look much the same after 11 group became splintered when some made shameless years, although there was general agreement that efforts to gain entry to the residents’ bar at Langton’s. Michael Barry had matured from a boy into an almost Many repaired to a local pub while others called it a unrecognisable man. night. Questions about jobs, locations and families were The reunion was a great success and much credit is due asked as we reacquainted ourselves with those we had to the organisers for taking the initiative and putting once known so well. in the hard work. In general the focus of conversations seemed to be more on the present than on the past. Catching up continued over a delicious meal served However, many of the chats on the night were peppered with patience by the staff of the hotel. The atmosphere with statements of gratitude for our education and the of the refectory was briefly resurrected when wine was advantages we can see it has provided us. Perhaps we spilled in an accident inevitably involving Damien will reminisce more about Roscrea days in 2023, but Lynch. Our House Captain, Des Hernon, addressed us will we recognise each other? with a characteristic mix of the humorous and serious. Mark Coen (1997-2003) He reminded us that we were a group that had shared many unique experiences, including being taught The Editor apologises to the Class of 2003 by Pat Sheedy and being served stew in stainless for the delay in printing this report! steel buckets. In a reflective moment he recalled our

Andrew Fogarty and Richard Phelan. Raphael Keane, Daniel Grandjean, David Sparrow and Tomás Lundon.

Roscrea Review 27 ROSCREA Review OBITUARIES

Frank Buckley Branch where he provided great trumpet (guitar!). We had many (CCR 1961-’66) leadership, particularly in dealing a nice chat post show and would died on 23rd February 2015 after with the IRFU. He was a gentle always have a short reminiscence a valiant three year battle with man, yet persuasive and firm, who about our years in CCR where cancer. Originally from Tullamore, in his final years was subject to music helped to keep us all sane. he studied Commerce in UCD poor health. A few years ago I had the pleasure and worked in the building/ Michael O’Carroll. of being involved with Pat in construction sector. He was a the Offaly produced film Eden, director with SCB (Structural directed by the Recks brothers. Concrete Bonding), based in Paddy Coffey Pat was with the band in the film Newbridge. A talented musician (CCR 1954-‘59) and I was a customer in the bar - who played banjo, mandolin and died on 30th October 2016. Along type cast again! fiddle he was described as ‘the life with John (CCR 1956-’61) and and soul of the party’ at the 2011 Damien (CCR 1961-’66) he My final chat with Pat was on the reunion of the Class of ’66. He was one of three brothers who phone shortly before our class is survived by his wife Mary and followed their father John Joe reunion in 2016. I phoned him sons Matthew and Nevan. His (CCR 1927-’30) to CCR. to ask if he would be interested brother Joe was in the Class of ’61 in sharing a room on that night. in CCR. Noel Condon The last thing he said to me was (CCR 1946-’48) “I’ll get back to you” - sadly that died on 23rd October 2016. After never happened. I was shocked Dr. Joe Daly leaving CCR Noel took up the when I heard he had passed. (CCR 1948-’53) Management of his own farm When I walked into the chapel went to God in December 2016 at Ballymarsough, Tipperary in Tullamore on the day of his after an exciting life as a medical and was a Master Farmer for 30 funeral and saw his guitar lying practitioner, a dedicated family years. Noel enjoyed attending the silent on the altar, and thought man, and a keen sportsman. In CCR Union Social Functions that we would never hear him play CCR he was known as the younger and liked keeping in touch with it again it broke my heart. Pat was brother of Martin (later to be fellow pastmen. To his wife Irene, a humble man and wouldn’t want Dom Kevin Daly OCSO, College daughters Ann, Ursula, Irene and me saying anything too “flowery” President and Abbot). Joe was a Margot we offer our sympathy. about him, but I just want to finish fine hurler and popular student. by saying that Pat Ennis was one On leaving Roscrea he qualified Pat Ennis nice fella and gifted musician. as a family doctor and settled in (CCR 1971-’76) He would regularly break into a his beloved Ballygar, where he When I started in CCR in 1971 and tongue in cheek version of The married Madeline and had seven met Pat Ennis for the first time Wandering Minstrel from The children - Martin, Michelle, Peter, he was already an accomplished Mikado so I will leave you with Joanne, Madeline, Aisling and guitar player. During my time a few lines from it which aptly Luke who predeceased him in there I was in awe of himself and describe Pat: 2010. Brendan (Bunny) Hayes. I loved music and longed to have their A wandering minstrel I, Joe for many years was the talents. They were the mainstay A thing of shreds and patches Galway GAA football team doctor of the choir, and any sing songs Of ballads, songs and snatches as well as being a guiding light that might occur. In school I was And dreamy lullaby! at Pearse Stadium, Salthill. He more involved in Athletics than My catalogue is long was also a former captain of the music but in the years after I left Through every passion ranging Roscommon Golf Club, but it was I became very involved in the And to your humours changing his involvement with Connacht music and drama scene. I met I tune my supple song! Rugby that brought him most Pat at many musicals where he I tune my supple song! praise. He was a founder member was usually the lead guitar player. of Creggs RFC and in 1988 he He carried his talent lightly and Rest in peace my friend. became President of the Connacht wasn’t one for blowing his own Michael Creagh.

Roscrea Review 28 ROSCREA Review OBITUARIES

Jack Fennell Jack’s reminiscences were a joy chief architects and editors of The (CCR 1957-’61) On 8th July to hear. He revelled in poking Weed, a subversive alternative last, as the Class of ’61 gathered fun at those who liked to portray commentary on College life which in Birr for their 55 year Reunion, themselves as a cut above the rest, was not reflected in the ‘approved’ we were shocked to learn of and he excelled in providing richly - and vetted - students’ magazine Jack Fennell’s unexpected death embroidered detail surrounding The Vexillum. Those were days that morning as he appeared to the circumstances involving dents long before Private Eye and have had made a very successful in his victims’ social standing – The Phoenix. Jack’s publication recovery from a recent illness. as they inevitably did in Jack’s merrily and mercilessly debunked They were also sad and bewildered anecdotes. But he was never much of the authority that went as their many gatherings in recent cruel to his cast, who were always with life in CCR at the time, and years would have been incomplete deserving of their billing on his stood fearlessly on the side of the without his ubiquitous presence. programme. underdog. Indeed even in his physical absence that evening in July, he Even during his seven month Having completed his Leaving somehow managed to dominate sojourn at St Vincent’s Hospital Certificate with distinction, he the gathering, a presence copper- he availed of every opportunity joined the Munster and Leinster fastened when Tom Garvey to hilariously entertain visiting Bank (later AIB), moving between shared a text that Jack had sent classmates, staff and fellow branches in all four provinces of him during the previous week on patients, as only Jack could, and Ireland. Wherever he went he returning from Birr to Dublin after he greatly appreciated the never sought out Roscrea-men, and working on the arrangements for less than weekly visits from his did his best to ‘look after’ those the Reunion. It read: good brother Richard travelling in need. He was a committee from New Ross. member of the Dublin Branch of I have just been to Parsonstown the Union for some years before (sic) with Messrs Gerry Moloney When he arrived at Roscrea in his bank duties took him to Ulster, and Joe Doherty to meet with the 1957 he was simply John Fennell, and from there moved south retired keeper of the telescope Mr the son of a bank manager in again as the Northern Troubles John Joyce. He had a decanter of Arklow, and brother of Richard escalated. In due course his highly fine Irish malt to warm my weary who had started the previous year. valued practical banking skills led heart. In recent times I sent one But once it was established he was to his appointment as an executive of my agents to Roscommon and the grandson of legendary Maths in the bank’s Visa Card division he reports that Lord Lecarrow, teacher Jack Murphy, the ‘father where he worked until he retired. aka John Coffey, is well, and of the chapel’ of the teaching He is survived by his brother still installing hangovers on his staff and confidant of many of the Richard – also of the Class of ’61, customers. Looking forward to monks, he was quickly renamed his widow Aideen, his son David, meeting you and the rest of the ‘Jack’. Whilst the majority of his his daughter in law Bonnie, and reprobates at our Reunion next classmates sought to catch the eye his granddaughter Mia. week. in the classroom or on the playing Ar dheis De do raibh a anam fields, Jack adopted a strategy of dilis As well as being a true CCR man flying under the radar and focused Gerry Moloney. – his heart never left the place - instead on developing his powers Jack was one of those rare species of observation and listening. of men who, if lucky enough, This he accomplished to an Tom Hastings one runs into occasionally. He extraordinary degree, and honed (CCR 1948–‘53) was a raconteur extraordinaire, his lifelong skills from watching Enniscorthy and Co. Roscommon, whose endless store of amusing those around him in action – died on 10th May 2016. Aged 82, tales of past pupils, teachers, and not the least of whom was his had been in poor health for about yes, the Cistercian community aforementioned grandfather. a year up to his death. – no deserving targets were outside his range - never failed Probably his most significant All his life Tom spoke fondly to delight his eager audience. contribution to CCR was as one of of his time in Roscrea where

Roscrea Review 29 ROSCREA Review OBITUARIES

he captained both Junior and Christopher (Christum) relaxed and friendly, full of good Senior rugby teams. He played Leonard humour, which characteristics alongside the likes of Gus Martin, (CCR 1945 -’49) were still very evident at his recent David Andrews and Gerry died on 24th December 2015 in the class reunion: a true champion Culliton although as he would Mater Hospital. A native of Trim, from county Clare. tell you “Gerry played more Co. Meath, where he lived all of Cathal Bredin. hurling in those days”. He vividly his life he was scrum half on the Paddy McMahon remembered games against Junior Rugby team. He is survived (CCR 1955-‘60) Garbally, Rockwell, Newbridge, by his brothers Cornelius It was a shock to his classmates to St Mary’s etc. as though they (Conny) (CCR 1945-’48) and learn of Paddy’s death in Dublin were played yesterday. Tom Gregory (CCR 1948-’53). All on 20th May 2016. He was one of subsequently went on to play with three followed their parents into the most youthful looking at our 55 Corinthians and London Irish. businesses in Trim. year reunion at CCR in December Tom came to Enniscorthy in 1974 After leaving CCR, Christum 2015 and was a key member of when he was appointed Assistant worked at Ferrier Pollock, William the organising commitee. Paddy Chief Nursing Officer at St Street, Dublin for 5 years. He was an amiable Meathman, Senan’s Psychiatric Hospital. Tom returned to Trim where he started an engaging conversationalist, took up this role in a time when his own successful business and and a leader in the class. These a more enlightened approach only retired 10 years ago. leadership qualities were shown in his success in his post- CCR career, to psychiatric care was being He was predeceased by his wife in banking, eventually becoming ushered in. Tom excelled in this Norah. After her untimely death CEO of Ulster Bank. He will best role. His professionalism and he helped set up The Meath be remembered by classmates compassionate nature inspired Hospice Homecare Movement for his eloquent Goodbye speech staff and patients alike. and spent many hours fundraising on behalf of the class, in the on its behalf. He was always deeply Tom also played a huge part in Refectory, in the presence of then involved in the Trim community the development of Enniscorthy College President, Fr Declan, as and this was reflected by the large Rugby Club where he served we had just put behind the labours number who attended his funeral. in a variety of roles, including of Leaving Cert and were looking Pat Keane. Coach, Treasurer, Secretary forward to the post-CCR future and President. He was held in with a mixture of relief, optimism Leo Mattimoe such esteem at the club that he and trepidation. His brother Jim (CCR 1958-’64) was appointed their Centenary is also a CCR pastman (1959-’64). died on 12th January 2016 after a President in 2012. He was hugely To his family we offer our heartfelt long illness. proud when Enniscorthy won the sympathy. Provincial Towns Cup that year. Leo taught History for many years Cathal Bredin. Tom never married: his fiancée in Mercy College, Sligo. He is was killed in a tragic motor survived by his wife Úna, daughter As we gathered in Roscrea Golf accident in 1973. Tom himself Meabh and son Niall. Club after the Abbot’s Cup on suffered from major injuries in 10th September last, news came that crash but happily recovered Kevin McDonagh through that Pat Rafferty (CCR after being on life support at St (CCR 1955-‘60) 1950-’53) had passed away. Vincent’s Hospital for 3 weeks. Kevin attended his class reunion Pat was a very loyal pastman, he There was a large attendance at at CCR on 12th December 2015, was the son of a pastman and the his funeral in Enniscorthy. At so it was a shock to his classmates father of Brian, Niall and Eoin the conclusion the cathedral fell to hear of his death on 24th who graced CCR in the 1970s and silent as his friend Niall Wall January 2016, in his home place 1980s. His brother John (class of sang a moving version of ‘The of Ennistymon. Kevin initially 1966) is also a CCR pastman. studied Veterinary at UCD, Parting Glass’. This was followed Pat was an ever present at CCR and then switched to Banking, by Tom’s final journey back home events in the South West, and a including at AIB Westport. He was to Kilronan cemetery just outside great supporter of the College and a very accomplished rugby player Keadue in North Roscommon. the Union. We extend our deepest at hooker for the Senior Cup M a y h e r e s t i n p e a c e . sympathies to his wife Nuala and team at CCR. He was always very David Wrafter all the family.

Roscrea Review 30 ROSCREA Review OBITUARIES

Kevin O’Flanagan After Leaving Certificate, Brendan Joyce in Melbourne. (CCR 1966-’71) repaired home which was now in died suddenly last October. A Belfast, where he joined the bank. Looking back to Ireland in the native of Cahir, Kevin studied in As the situation deteriorated in fifties it now stands revealed Trinity where he was close pals the 60s Brendan, now married as a grey time when lads like with Paul McGovern, who passed with two young daughters, got a Brendan and I in small provincial away from Motor Neuron Disease transfer to England. He rose in the towns had no realistic prospects some years ago After that, he went ranks, moving form Manchester of university. No wonder that to London and worked in financial to Liverpool to London, acquiring when we belatedly battered down services and was married. His wife along the way loyalties to the door we couldn’t get enough suffered from dementia, and died Manchester United, Everton and of it. My own junk mail bin is some years ago. London-Irish (Cheshire-born largely solicitations for donations son Niall playing rugby with the to seven or eight colleges across He had a sharp wit and intellect latter). His years in the Bank of Europe and the U.S.A. who claim and was one of the brighter guys in Ireland were memorable for his me for an alumnus. the A class. He was a good athlete Union activism, and it was a happy - a fast 100m runner, and though day when he retired in 1992. Brendan was a regular attendee he was relatively small, this got at the CCR dinners in London him a place on the SCT as a good This enabled him to do what earlier back in the day, and we once met running outside centre or winger. circumstances had not allowed – in New York to attend the branch Kevin was a great supporter of he enrolled at the Open University dinner there. The eventual the UK Branch of the Union. A and acquired his B.A. in English victory in the Leinster Senior former Chairman, he regularly Literature. It opened up for him a Cup generated unprecedented attended formal and informal events, including the London whole new playing field in Anglo- e-chatter between us and our Dinner in February 2016, and Irish Studies, with the accent on respective contemporaries across the gatherings of London based Joyce. There was ample scope the globe. I felt a gaping void pastmen watching the Senior for this in, of all places, Australia, when Ireland beat the All Blacks Cup matches at Philomena’s in where he emigrated to find, and I had no brother to share the Covent Garden. His brothers among other things, a sunnier moment. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Michael (CCR 1959-’64) and climate for a congenital rheumatic anam! James (CCR 1961-’66) are also condition. Nor did he limit pastmen. himself to the programs on offer Damian Smyth Declan Martin at the University of Melbourne. I (CCR 1947-’52) would receive seductive postcards Brendan Smith from Trieste, Italy, trying to entice Is it irony or what, that I should be (CCR 1954-‘59) me into joining him for a Chianti- editing this piece on Bloomsday In February 2016 my younger fuelled fortnight of fun at the 2017? Editor. brother Brendan and his wife annual Trieste Joyce jamboree. Sueellen came over from (Learned academic footnote: We recently heard the sad news Melbourne to spend a rare couple The Trieste where Joyce spent of the death of Liam Mulcahy of weeks with us in the San more than 15 richly creative years (CCR 1963-’66) - an obituary Francisco Bay Area. In July I between 1904 and 1920.) for him will appear in the next received a phone call from Suellen issue. to report his sudden death at The first e-mails I had after his home. This made me doubly sudden death were from shocked We are greatly indebted to those grateful for that last visit. Joyce scholars across Australia who wrote tributes to the above who vividly remembered his lively deceased pastmen, and to those Brendan was born in Roscrea town participation in their seminars who provided news of their when our dad was stationed there and soirées. The month before passing. Information on deceased by his bank, and duly followed me he died he proudly sent me a pastmen should be forwarded to to C.C.R. My own contemporary, copy of an invitation to him and the Editor at pathanratty@gmail. the legendary Gus Martin, was his Suellen for a Bloomsday dinner com or to Katherine Donovan at superb English teacher. and theatre program showcasing [email protected]

Roscrea Review 31 ROSCREA Review FR. MICHAEL O’SULLIVAN (CCR 1977 – 1982)

them to a youth meeting in the Michael spent the first two years ecumenical monastery of Taizé in a parish in a slum outside in France. After his Leaving Khartoum and the following Certificate, and a brief period five years running a language as a trainee manager with Tesco school, teaching Arabic to up to in Ballyfermot, he went for two forty students, mostly Church years to study philosophy in personnel, who worked among Milltown Park and then did his the refugees and displaced novitiate in Fribourg Switzerland Christians who had fled the war in 1985. in the south.

It was while in Switzerland that he After seven years Michael moved learned about the congregation’s to an Orthodox Monastery in founder, Cardinal Lavigerie, who Tripoli in Northern Lebanon had sent missionaries south from which he describes as a very Algiers into the unchartered beautiful experience and then Many past pupils of Cistercian wilds of Africa. took a year’s sabbatical before College Roscrea have been returning to Rome to finish his ordained priests in its 110-year Michael was very attracted to thesis. He then travelled to history. Michael O’Sullivan was the Arab and Islamic world and Jerusalem to work for nearly eight not the last past pupil to have asked for an apostolic training years with the French Branch of been ordained a priest but he is in Algeria. He began learning Caritas, Secours Catholique, the the youngest past pupil to have Arabic and immersing himself French equivalent of Trócaire. been ordained. in the Arabic culture. Two years later he went to Toulouse to He represented Caritas in the Two fellow students who were study theology and to continue Holy Land where he worked ahead of both myself and Father his Arabic studies, and was then with other Churches and also ran Michael, Eamon Stack and ordained a priest in 1991 in his La Maison d’Abraham, a guest Brendan McHugh RIP were hometown of Kilrush, Co. Clare. house for the poor and needy in also ordained. It is a sign of the East Jerusalem. Michael really changing times that for a school Michael then completed a enjoyed his time in Jerusalem which would often have 3 priests Master’s Degree in Arabic and which he described as a fantastic a year we have had 3 in the past Islamic studies in Rome before place where he was working with 40 years and none in the last 30. being sent to Khartoum. other Aid Organisations on aid projects and liaising with the Fr. Michael O’Sullivan is a Fr. Michael found the transition Paris HQ. native of Kilrush, County to Khartoum a difficult one, Clare and started boarding in because while the standards After eight years in Jerusalem Fr. Roscrea in 1977. Most of us of living in North Africa were Michael then moved to Dubai to in his class realised while we reasonable, Sudan is one of work as Financial Administrator were in Roscrea that Michael the poorest countries in the to the Vicariate of Southern was destined for priesthood. world, affected by a series Arabia, a diocese which stretches He decided he wanted to be a of incompetent and corrupt from Abu Dhabi to Aden, a priest at 15, when he met for the governments, war, drought, distance of two thousand five first time with White Fathers famine and a staggering foreign hundred kilometres. Michael in Roscrea after he went with debt. has settled in Dubai for the past

Roscrea Review 32 ROSCREA Review three years and has been involved HUGH MC DONNELL RIP in formulating a solid financial structure for the dioceses. Hugh Mc CCR won another Leinster Final Donnell but succumbed to St Clement’s He ministers in Saint Mary’s passed away of Limerick in the All-Ireland Church, Dubai, the busiest peacefully at Final. Hugh persevered and was Catholic Church on the planet. The his home in rewarded in 2000 when his team Church regularly accommodates Streamstown, won the All-Ireland title. The Roscrea on following year CCR defeated St 70,000 worshipers with up to 40 May 27th with Kieran’s, Kilkenny in the Leinster Masses a weekend. his wife Nora, League Final. CCR annexed his daughters another All-Ireland title in 2004 Fr. Michael was always a fine Deirdre, Fiona, over-coming St Patrick’s Maghera singer and it is no surprise that Niamh, Aoife and his sons Jim by 2-13 to 2-10. His contribution he is a member of the Dubai and David, both past pupils, by to hurling was immense. Twelve Chamber Choir and during his his bedside. Locals found it hard past students played in the time in Jerusalem was a member to comprehend as he had his daily Fitzgibbon Cup in 2004 and of its Oratorio Chamber Choir. stroll in the Monastery grounds he was so proud of them. As just eight days previously. Manager of Roscrea Hurling Club, As Michael is still officially he trained the U/14 Team to win attached to Jerusalem he returns Hugh was born in Carrigatoher, the All-Ireland at the Community Burgess in 1941. He was educated Games. He was a popular mentor there regularly and was delighted in Nenagh CBS, St Flannan’s with Roscrea Hurling Club and to be able to meet up with Fr. Peter College Ennis and UCD. At the was their Representative on the Garvey, Fr. Peter’s brother Tom age of seventeen, he played for County Board for many years. and his sister-in-law Jean when Burgess - Kiladangan at Minor, they spent four days together just Under 21, Intermediate and Hugh was a staunch member of a few weeks prior to Father Peter’s Senior levels all in the one season Roscrea Golf Club and he had the passing. – that was some achievement! He rare distinction of winning the played in the Harty Cup with St Captain’s Prize on two occasions, On 25th September last, the Flannan’s and the Fitzgibbon Cup a feat accomplished by just Monastic community was with UCD. three other members. He also delighted to welcome Fr Michael won the President’s Prize. He preside at the Sunday Eucharist in He joined the staff of Cistercian formed lasting friendships, and College, Roscrea in 1970 and his enthusiasm endeared him to The Abbey with his family, friends retired in 2006. Hugh was a adults and students alike. This and members of his Society committed family man with a was evident when so many came joined the monastic community, passion for hurling and the Irish to pay their final respects. the staff, the students of the language. He played a significant College and the local community role in the in the development of Bhí grá aige don Ghaoluinn agus for the celebration of the 25th hurling in the College. CCR had déirigh leis Craobh na hÉireann a anniversary of his Ordination to experienced many barren years in ghnothú sna sóisir, i Muineachán the Priesthood in 1991. hurling before Hugh took charge sa bhliain 1984. Bhuaigh CCR - thirty nine years to be exact! Craobh na hÉireann sinsear sa Michael Tarpey, Don Collins, With his coaching expertise the bhliain 1991 in Ostán Gresham. Brian Hartnett and I were College won the Leinster “B” Final Sár ghaisce déanta ag Aodh agus delighted to be able to attend and in 1986. That team was beaten by na fóirne cinnte. Ba laoch é Aodh one point in the All-Ireland Final. nach ndéanfar dearúd air go deo. help him celebrate this milestone. The following year he guided the College to another Leinster success Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis. Andrew Cody but lost the final again to Shannon Breandán Ó Ruairc Comprehensive. Ten years later

Roscrea Review 33 ROSCREA Review Photo Gallery

Before we handed back the Cup won so gallantly in 2015 Tom At a jam packed pre-match lunch on the day of the 2016 Final, Union O’Connell suggested that someone bring it to Barney Sherry, at 95 President Mark Ryan presented a framed photo of the victorious 2015 one of our oldest pastmen (though his brother Vincent is 100 this team to Tom O’Connell who has done Trojan work feeding the hungry on year.) Brendan Feehan duly did and this happy photo was taken by match days. Long may that tradition continue! Barney’s son Brian.

Philip Keegan (CCR 2007-’13) who starred in many musical events At a recent promotional meeting in Ballinasloe: Sean O’Brien, Captain during his time in CCR is now a student at the Lir Academy in Dublin. of the SCT in 2013 and current Connacht regular, Union President Picture shows Philip and the Editor after a production of Vampirella at Padraic Ó Maille and Board of Management Chairman Ronnie Culliton. the Smock Alley Theatre, which was directed by the Editor’s son, Conor.

CCR parents Inez Heenan and Lurlene Duggan with Fergal Cox (CCR 1987-’92) and Paul Davey (CCR 1990-’95) pictured at the Open Day back in April. These four are doing a colossal amount of work in the promotion and marketing of the College.

Roscrea Review 34 ROSCREA Review Lorrha Men in the Great War

Those who know Lorrha native Gerry O’Meara pride in the men and women of his native parish is (CCCR 1965-’70) will have known of his longstanding evident throughout. interest in the First World War, and of the many trips he has made to the battle fields and cemeteries The organisers of the Tipperariana Book Fair, held in Belgium and Northern France. in Fethard on Sunday 12th February, chose Gerry’s book from about 40 books published in Tipperary Interest in and fascination with a topic is one thing as the Tipperariana Book of the Year 2016. – it’s quite another to turn that interest into writing a book about it. Clearly a labour of love, his 382 page This award was inaugurated to honour and draw book, Lorrha People in the Great War chronicles attention to the great work being carried out by the across 62 chapters the stories of a large number of dozens of authors and local historians across the men from Lorrha and the locality who fought in that county who produce up to forty major publications conflict. every year. Gerry received a specially commissioned ‘Art Piece’, by talented artist and potter Dóirín The last seven chapters deal with men from the Saurus, which evoked the image of the ‘Cemetery area who fought in other conflicts. That there Headstone’ which is one of the iconic images that were so many from what has often been seen as remind us of the needless slaughter of millions of a ‘Republican” area drew many comments at the men during that awful war. book’s launches before Christmas in Lorrha, in Birr and in Glasnevin Cemetery Museum. Accepting the award, Gerry referred to his great interest from an early age in all things ‘militaristic’ - The book which is beautifully illustrated is the even though he had never shot a gun in his life - and product of painstaking research over a four year of his visits to the War Cemeteries in France and period, and the clear devotion to his subject and Belgium where countless millions lie buried.

At the launch of his book, Lorrha Men in Gerry O’Meara received the the Great War in the Glasnevin Cemetery Tipperariana Book of the Year 2016 Museum on 3rd December 2016, Gerry was award from Dóirín Saurus joined by CCR pastmen Tom Hope, Liam on 27th January 2017. Nicholl, Aidan McNulty, Pat Kelly and Pat Hanratty.

Roscrea Review 35 ROSCREA Review A brainstorming session, prepared with great skill by Andrew Cody was held in CCR on Saturday 10th June.

The pictures show some of the participants representing the Monastery, College Staff past and present, parents and past students from every decade since the 1940s.

We hope this edition of the Roscrea Review has helped spread the message that CCR is thriving and has a bright future. For the past few months, Ronnie Culliton and the Board of Management have been working tirelessly for the College.

Part of that work has been engaging with pastmen at home and abroad, including the many who have pledged support, financial and otherwise. Ronnie and all at CCR want everyone to know that the door is open for all pastmen, whenever it suits them and they have the appetite, to engage with the College in any way they see fit. Ní neart go cur le cheile! www.graphprint.ie

Roscrea Review 36 ROSCREA Review