ROSCREA Review

NO. 96 - NEWSLETTER OF THE CISTERCIAN COLLEGE ROSCREA UNION Spring/Summer 2014

College President Brendan Feehan, Union President Simon Coyle and CCR Board of Management Chairman Frank Thompson pictured at the recent Business Lunch in Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club. In this issue... G Simon Coyle's year as Union G Reunions of classes of 1953, 1963, 1983, President; 1987 and 1988 G Message from new College President, G Farewell (but not goodbye) to Brendan Feehan; Marcelline Cody; G Reports on various Union events G The sad passing of Gerry Maher; including Dublin Branch Business G Other obituaries; Lunches; G News of Pastmen; G Meeting one of CCR's oldest living pastmen; and lots more. EDITORIAL replacing the Board of heart attack. That Gerry, so full Governors. As well as of life and joie de vivre should representatives of parents and be taken from us so suddenly is staff, it is pleasing to note that a stark reminder of just how Welcome to the Spring 2014 three pastmen are members: its tenuous a hold on life we all issue of the Roscrea Review. Chairman Frank Thompson have. Tributes to Gerry appear This academic year, now (CCR 1963-’68), Tom Stokes elsewhere in this Review. Ar drawing to a close has seen on (CCR 1962-’67) and Barry dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís. the one hand the retirement of Devereux (CCR 1976-’80). College President Marcelline Indeed Frank will have a dual The President and Board of Cody after years of sterling role for a year from May when Management are very anxious to service to CCR and the arrival at he takes over the Union develop even greater links with the helm last January of Mr. Presidency from Simon Coyle. the past student body. To that Brendan Feehan who was We wish them all every success end, Katherine Donovan has formerly on the staff of St. in their various roles in the years recently been appointed Alumni Mary’s College, Rathmines. The ahead. Officer and is spending even Union owes an immense debt of more time than before on such gratitude to Marcelline for her October 2013 brought deep matters. We thank Katherine for great support, her attendance sadness to the entire CCR family all the work she has done on our which added immensely to very with the sudden passing of Gerry behalf over many years and wish many Union occasions and the Maher, pastman, CCR teacher her well in her “new” role. sheer warmth of her welcome and Deputy Principal, Union whenever pastmen individually President to whose family we As Simon Coyle’s year as Union or in Reunion groups visited the extend our deepest and heartfelt President draws to a close, we College. Brendan knows he has sympathies. Gerry who retired thank him for great year as big shoes to fill, but we have just a few years ago was on President and wish Frank every confidence he will do so in holiday in New York where his Thompson every success as he the months and years ahead. daughter Ciara and her husband takes up the role. Steve live and had the joy of [email protected] Recently a Board of meeting his new grandchild Cate Management has been installed, before succumbing to a massive

Simon Coyle, joined the firm of Chapman Flood. In 1998 the firm merged Union with Rawlinson Hunter Mazars and was subsequently branded Mazars. The Firm employs 200 President in offices in Dublin and Galway and is part of the international 2013 - 2014 Mazars Worldwide firm. In addition to his responsibilities as Senior Partner he heads the Simon Coyle FCA is a Chartered firm’s Insolvency and Financial Accountant and Joint Senior Advisory Services Division. Partner in Mazars Chartered Accountants. He was part of the Simon married Caroline Sherry Class of 1967-’72. Following CCR (no relation to the famous CCR he took Articles with Coffey Sherrys) in 1985 and they have Gubbins which became part of three children Killian, Natalie Craig Gardner/Price and Owen. He is the brother of Waterhouse. In 1980 he moved Michael Coyle who served as member of Milltown Golf Club to Paris where he spent two Union President in 2011-12. and Lansdowne RFC both of years working throughout Both Simon and Michael have which have several CCR France, Belgium and Spain. On previously served as Chairman pastmen amongst their returning to Ireland in 1982 he of the Dublin Branch. He is a membership.

Roscrea Review 2 Message preceded on the Saturday by the was forwarded to all the Abbot’s Cup in Roscrea Golf attendees as a memento of a great from Union Club. A remarkable round of Golf weekend. by Ronnie Culliton (8) yielded a November saw the Dublin Branch 47 point tally and a most popular Dinner which again was a great President winner. Classes of 1963 and 1983 success with over 110 in held anniversary dinners in the attendance including a couple of County Arms in Birr that evening Simon Coyle dozen of those who left the both of which were very well College in the past five years. attended and enjoyed by all. As Dom Richard gave a very What’s another year? Johnny of Union Day itself it was a impressive presentation of the Logan sang plaintively in the relatively quite affair as the boys investment plans the Monastery 1980 Eurovision Song Contest. in the College were on a week- and Board of Management have On 12th May 2013 another year end off. It is essential that we for the College over the coming was the one I was just about to revert to a day which sees some years. A spend programme of €4 embark on having been invested substantive interface between million to add to that which has at the Union AGM in the College. the Union/Past Students and the already been spent to date should With, as I write, scarcely two current students at the College. see the finessing of the physical months to go the year has flown, Insurance issues have been cited infrastructure of the College to has been most enjoyable and a as the reasons for the the highest of standards. So revelation. It is no wonder that disappearance of Past vs Present impressive was the presentation the Presidential term of office sporting fixtures. These must be and so re-assuring of the was reduced to one year. Not overcome or alternate low-risk commitment of the Monastery to many could withstand two years activity developed to take their the College that I took the of the utter deference, respect place. and affection shown to me over presentation to the North the past year. A truly humbling October saw the passing of my America Branch Dinner in New experience. friend and classmate of 1967-72 York on 22nd November. Held in Gerard P Maher (Gerry Ball to the Private Dining room of Within a matter of weeks I those who knew him Delmonico’s Restaurant on West attended the 6th year graduation affectionately). This was a 36th Street and very ably lunch in the College at which the considerable shock given its hosted/organised by Niall soon to be fellow past students of sudden and unexpected nature. Rafferty this was a most the College received their Union The attendance at his funeral enjoyable event to which I was ties and were given a little insight spoke volumes with regard to the able to bring my good lady- into the functioning and purpose affection in which he was held. Caroline. Luminaries from of the Union. This function was Conor Massey has agreed to pen around the US and indeed also one of the last that a short obituary to Gerry Canada were in attendance. John Marcelline Cody attended in her elsewhere in this edition of the Coughlan (in the Ice Cream capacity as outgoing President of Review. On a much happier note distribution business) Des the College. It would be remiss of the month also saw the class of O’Brien (Publican and me not to recognise the great 1953 hold their 60th anniversary Restaurateur) and Charlie Scoope work that Marcelline undertook of leaving the College over two (Roscrea Enterprises!!) were as College President during her days. This was a remarkable amongst the attendees who tenure bringing as she did that event in its organisation by regaled and entertained us that female touch to what Michael O’Carroll, its hosting by evening. What a nice bunch of traditionally has been a very the Monastery and its attendance interesting fellows and great to male oriented environment. by 20 or so of those still on the see the ladies out in force to hear Summer rolled on and I missed a right side of the grass. I was old stories of the deprivations number of Branch Golf outings lucky and privileged to have been and hardship of CCR student life including Dublin and the invited and to witness at first all those years ago!! hand the affection with which the Midlands which were held within On December 15th I had the attendees still held CCR and each a week or so of one another at the pleasure of attending the Annual other after such a long period of end of August. Carol Service in the Monastery time. Subsequent to the event a Union day at the College on Church. The College Orchestra DVD of some 100 photographs Sunday September 15th was and School Choir were centre taken throughout the function

3 ROSCREA Review stage for the event displaying whilst Cathal O’Connell of relevant and detailed formats. outstanding musical and vocal Paddywagon fame shared his The coaching and career talent to a packed attendance. experience of establishing and guidance experience that is Together with a good number of building a business. available from within the past pastmen I attended the Leinster By the time you read this the student body should deployed by Schools League Cup Final in South East Branch dinner of 3rd the College to the current student Donnybrook on 18th December. May in the Ormonde Hotel, body. This would serve to mark The match was played under Kilkenny and the South West the current student body with the lights prior to which there was an Branch Dinner in Sunday’s Well significance and potential of the “Early Bird” dinner in O’Connells Tennis Club on 9th May will be Union. The implications of urban on Morehampton Road. Tom history. Rob O’Shea in centric development has served O’Connell (1967-’72) made sure ringmaster for the former whilst to put a strain on the Regional that we were very well looked Gerry O’Meara is looking after Branch network. We may need to after and dispatched to the match the latter. The Kilkenny event look at consolidation of certain suitably fortified. The match did affords the Union the branches and we do need to look not go CCR’s way and in truth opportunity to make a well at the reinvigoration of certain Newbridge were the better team deserved presentation to retired others by passing on the baton of on the night and were to prove so College President Marcelline leadership to younger pastmen again when the two sides met Cody. These events will be with renewed levels of energy after Christmas in the Leinster covered in detail in the next issue and imagination. There is a Senior Cup. There is always next of the Review. symbiosis between the College year. and the Union, the health of each When all is said and done in a being somewhat dependent on On 21st February, the eve of the year that has to all intents and the other. A vitalised, well England-Ireland Rugby purposes gone in the blink of an connected Union which is seen International I travelled to eye what are the reflections with by past/present students, parents London for the UK Branch which I am left? There are many, and the parents of prospective Dinner in the Royal Air Force not the least of which is the great students at the College as such is Club in Piccadilly. Fergal Keane affection in which the College Is a tremendous support to the (1967-’72) chairs the London held and all that it means to the College in attracting and Branch and I was delighted to see great majority of pastmen. All of maintaining student numbers. Finbarr Bennett and his brother those that I have met are proud Anthony amongst an attendance of their association with the The Union therefore has a role to of 30 or so stalwarts. A very College and with those with play and I am delighted to see special mention must go to whom they travelled through the that representation on the new Manus Moran (1941-’45) who is CCR journey. School Board of Management the member through whom the features a number of pastmen Given those sentiments it is facilities and hospitality of the and the parents of current imperative that the Union and Club are extended. I was students at CCR. College combine to provide a delighted also to see Brendan basis upon which contact / In closing may I again take this Feehan, the new College communication with and opportunity to thank you my President took the time out to between pastmen is enhanced. fellow pastmen for the support travel and represent the College. The Union and College should and camaraderie shown to me The function was a mixed one combine to bring further throughout the past year. Might I and all the ladies present brought structure and functionality to also express my very best wishes a wonderful colour and communications with pastmen. If to my successor Mr Frank appropriate restraint to the the Union is to maintain its Thompson (CCR 1963 – ‘68) who occasion. significance to both its existing is also the Chair of the Board of March 7th saw the Dublin Branch and prospective members it must Management and to Dom host another business lunch adapt its offering to compete with Richard and the community and following on the successful the alternate social and business Katherine Donovan for their inaugural event held in June networks that are available today support of the Union throughout 2013. Dick Spring regaled us at to all and sundry. The Union the past year. the first event with stories from database is proprietorial to the In the words of John his political career and the Union and its branches and Shanahan – Bon Courage à importance of not working, should be centrally maintained in Tous.

Roscrea Review 4 exposed to. As New College President a College we value every student as an takes the helm individual and endeavour to meet their Last December, the Board of Governors announced the appointment of Mr Brendan Feehan as President of Cistercian College Roscrea with effect individual from 1 January 2014. needs to allow Originally from Ballyagran, Co. Limerick, Brendan Feehan M.A. H.Dip.Ed. them take taught Business Studies in St. Mary's College CSSp, Rathmines, Dublin, where their true he was actively involved in many areas of school life. At the time of his place as appointment to the post he was Year Head of Fifth Year. leaders in society. Cistercian College will Since his appointment, Brendan has attended several Union functions and continue to be a dynamic place, constantly impressed those in attendace with his dynamism and vitality. Below is his altering and changing to meet the needs of first address to the Union membership at large. this changing society. The Past Pupils are very important to us; I am Dear CCR pastmen, further build and enhance the College’s iconic taking this opportunity to extend the hand of reputation as one of Ireland’s leading As I finish my second term as College welcome to you as pastmen. The College is educational places of learning where the President/Principal I am very pleased to be genuine and serious about the link and student is central to all we do; where the afforded the opportunity to address you, the engagement we have with past pupils; we students’ care and experiences are pastmen, as you are very much part of our see you as members of the Cistercian College paramount. The College is looking to the family here in Cistercian College. The College family. We have begun the process of future with a renewed sense of confidence is appreciative of your hard work and the enhancing our database so we can send a and excitement; as an institution with a assistance you have given the College over monthly newsletter informing you of all the proud and rich heritage and tradition we will the past years and decades. activities, changes and innovations that are continue to guide and develop young men happening in the College over the coming The advice of St. Benedict “The strong has who are confident and enriched by the months and years. In developing the Alumni something to strive for and the weak are not Cistercian experience. discouraged” is as true in Cistercian College Office within the College we are committed to today as it was at its foundation in 1905. I am Our development plans have the students’ the link with you the pastmen - this office very honoured to be leading a College that interests at the core – modern student will have the sole objective of keeping a has such a proud and rich heritage and an centred living quarters, curricular channel of communication open between us exciting future. The College has the unique innovations, enhancement and further both. I value your input and opinion. The distinction of being the only school in the improvement to the student areas making it College is anxious to further develop the link world managed by Cistercian Monks – this is even a more student centred place of with pastmen by drawing on their expertise very important to us, it defines who we are as learning. We are embarking on an ambitious in areas such as careers and advice to enable a College community and how we interact development project to upgrade our us to develop and enhance our evening and and relate in this unique place of learning. information and communication technology weekend programmes. infrastructure to meet the College’s needs in As the College moves forward, we are We are honoured to be studying, playing, the coming years; placing the use of ICT committed to maintaining the high academic praying and living in the environment we are central to the learning and teaching standards as well as aiming to ensure fortunate to be situated – an 800 acre experiences of the young men in our care. offering each and every student has a unique campus in the shadow of an abbey and Boarding school models and structures have and holistic experience, where they are Monastic community that we draw so much changed and altered radically in the last valued, cherished, respected and encouraged inspiration and faith from. decade and at Cistercian College we are to be true to themselves and others with a The College is going through an exciting time determined to be a leader in all aspects of the mature prospective, a global outlook and a of change and renewal, in the past six educational field. sense of unique identity. months it has seen the Board of Governors Our students continue to achieve at the Please feel free to contact me on being replaced by a Board of Management highest levels in the varied activities and [email protected] and the appointment of a new College disciplines they engage in be that academics, President/Principal and Deputy music, sport, public speaking as well as a With kindest regards, President/Head of Boarding, Niall McVeigh. As myriad of other facets of College life they are Brendan Feehan. a College community we are determined to

5 ROSCREA Review College News: Ezine for pastmen: UIS Golf: From late Summer / early Autumn The CCR Union team in the Union the College hopes to produce a bi- of Irish Schools’ golf competition at monthly ezine which will be sent to Milltown G.C. on put up a fantastic As referred to elsewhere in this any past student who wishes. It will performance scoring 76 points, just Review, the College now has a give reasonably up to date College a point fewer than winners, St. Board of Management Board with News and will feature news and Mary's College. Castleknock also Frank Thompson (CCR 1962-’68) as information on prominent CCR scored 76 points and as their second Chairman. pastmen. If you wish to receive this, card was better they were runners please inform Katherine of your up. Our team was Hugh O'Neill email address at (CCR 1964-’69), Liam Nicholl (CCR [email protected] 1965-’70), Greg Swift (CCR 1972- Subsequent to the appointment of ’75), the current holder of the Matt Mr. Brendan Feehan as College Hyland Cup, and Ronnie Culliton President, Mr. Niall McVeigh has (CCR 1979-’84), the current holder been appointed Deputy President RTE Documentary on CCR: of the Abbot's Cup. We noticed on and Head of Boarding, and Mr. the Winners Shield that CCR were Gerry Grealish continues as Dean of Many of us heard the recent RTE winners of the trophy in 1943! Roll Studies. For more details see documentary about CCR entitled on next year! http://www.ccr.ie/index.php/school “Live Where You Learn”. It was -life/senior-management-team broadcast on 31st May and among other things dealt with 5th and 6th class boys who were spending a Rugby Support Group Draw weekend sampling life as boarders. Also featured was the reunion of the Back in January, the Rugby Support Class of 1953 among whose Group held its now annual Grand numbers was Michael O’Carroll who Slam Draw. Many pastmen spent many years working for RTE. responded to an email shot I sent The consensus was that it out and it was nice to be handing represented good publicity for the over €2,000 on the night to the College. Anyone who has not heard RSG on behalf of pastmen. For the it can download it from the RTE third successive year one of the website, either by scrolling through tickets sold through the email shot Appointment of Alumni the site or by directly clicking came up trumps – Aidan McNulty Officer: www.rte.ie/radio1/podcast/podcast won 4th prize, a round of golf for 4 _documentaryonone.xml and in the K Club, and no one deserved In a step that will surely enhance scrolling down through their list of it more than Aidan who has given the services she renders to the documentaries. decades of continuous service to the Union, Katherine Donovan has been Union and College. appointed Alumni Officer. The Union welcomes that appointment In case you don’t get an email and congratulates Katherine and U-20 Rugby World Cup urging you to buy a book of tickets wishes her continued success in the for next year’s draw, feel free to post. We were all delighted at the contact me in time at selection of three young pastmen [email protected] ! from the Class of 2013, Ciaran Incidentally, this year’s other prizes Gaffney, Oisin Heffernan and Rory were 2 tickets, flights and The College Website and the Moloney were selected for the Irish accommodation for the Heineken Alumni Ezine: Squad for the U-20 World Cup in Cup Final in Cardiff, 2 tickets and New Zealand. Indeed Sean O’Brien accommodation for Ireland v. Italy, The College Website has been from the same Class would have greatly enhanced and it is now the and 2 tickets for Ireland v. Wales. captained the side had he not Ironically, the top prize was won by go to place for news of what’s suffered an injury recently. Those happening. There is a huge amount a Welsh friend of Con Moloney men gave us great pleasure during (father of Rory and Colin) who of information on the site and it is the recent epic Cup runs, and it was very well designed and easy to owns the Grand Hotel in Swansea – wonderful to see them performing he hardly needed the flights! A pity navigate. Indeed, for those of us on a much bigger stage where the seeking news of matches, there was no Irish (or Welsh) team Irish Squad did so well to reach the in this year’s final! @CCRoscrea on Twitter is the semi finals before losing to a fastest source of real time powerful English team. Onwards information! and upwards, guys!

Roscrea Review 6 South West being among the countries Jim Keating presented Margaret where he conducted numerous O’Shea with a bouquet of flowers Branch assignments and projects. to mark the branch’s appreciation of her support over As is usual for the event, the the years. Of course, Jim’s very Function conversations and camaraderie successful tenure of office was continued into the small hours. helped very much by the support Maryborough While the amazing performance he received from Sandra, so it Hotel, Cork of the SCT in the recent rugby was appropriate that at Jim’s semi final against eventual last Union event as President, 19th April 2013 winners Blackrock College was incoming President, Simon on everyone’s minds, people Coyle, on behalf of the Union were still there to enjoy presented Sandra with a themselves and catch up on all bouquet of flowers. Despite this year’s long, dreary developments since the last winter, the elements were kind South West Dinner. for the barbecue arranged for the South West Branch in the Maryborough House Hotel. Little did we know then what a marvellous summer was in store for us! It was the last CCR Union function Jim Keating would attend in his capacity as Union President, and the first time at a South West Branch Dinner for Jim’s wife Sandra.

Incoming Union President, Simon Coyle travelled down from Dublin and Union General Secretary, Katherine Donovan and as our Patron Dom Richard Purcell were also welcomed to the event. We were delighted to welcome local pastmen, James Quain, Kevin Morrissey and P.J. Hourican back to our Reunion.

The function commenced with a tribute to Branch Member, Sean Walsh of Fermoy who died earlier in the year. Despite indifferent health in recent times, Sean was a regular attender at our gatherings, including the previous year’s event in May 2012. A former Head of Research in Teagasc, Sean had distinguished careers in both research and in academia. His expertise was very much in demand internationally, Libya, Saudi Arabia, China, Holland, Portugal and Cambodia Jim Keating addressing the gathering.

7 ROSCREA Review South West Branch Function continued

Cathal and Marion Bredin. Pat and Margaret O'Shea.

Kevin Morrissey and Dom Richard Purcell .

Simon Coyle making a presentation to Sandra Keating.

John Lynch and James Quain.

Dom Richard Purcell. Katherine Donovan.

Gerry O'Meara.

Jim Keating presents Margaret O'Shea with a bou- quet of flowers.

Roscrea Review 8 First prize in the Team event Matt Hyland Noel went to Brian Culliton’s team – he played with his son David, and Tony Salmon and Windle Golf 2013 they won with 85 points on a countback from Frank Thompson, Tony McCarthy(Captain of Edmondstown) and Pat The Matt Hyland / Noel After a few near misses, Greg Hanratty. Windle golf outing moved to a Swift with 40 points won the new venue in 2013, Matt Hyland trophy – he had Other prizes went to John Edmondstown Golf Club, 2 spent much of the previous Thompson and Colleen miles south of Rathfarnham. year “minding” it for his O’Neill (Longest Drives) and It was held on Friday 16th erstwhile playing partner, Aidan McNulty (Nearest the August – and while the day 2012 winner Fr. Peter Garvey pin.) wasn’t like one of the who was hospitalised at the scorchers we had in July, it time. Kay Garvey (Fr. Peter’s Because of the very enjoyable was still very pleasant. In fact sister) won the Noel Windle day had by all rounded off by the committee was concerned Cup with 38 points. Frank a wonderful meal, the as the previous day was very Thompson on 39 points was Committee has decided to go wet - a rare thing in Summer runner up to Greg with Dave back to Edmondstown for this 2013 but apart from an early Hernan close behind on 37 year’s event, on a more typical shower most golfers played in points. Yvonne Malone a long date – Friday 20th June 2014. pleasant sunshine. Forty one time supporter of this event, played golf and we were and 2012 Lay Captain of joined by were joined by Edmondstown was runner up As always we are very another ten for a very good to Kay on 33 points. grateful to our sponsors. meal and pleasant “afters”. Hackett Bookmakers Commtech Mazars Michael McNulty & Son Accountants O’Callaghan Hotels Betdaq Mason Hayes & Curran Matheson Kavanagh Fennell Foresthill Financial Planning Comans Wholesale Ltd. Paddywagon Tours Ltd. Graphprint Gowan Group, Merrion Rd. Dublin Branch Chairman Vincent Coyne with Edmondstown GC Captain, Joe Harford Tony McCarthy, Pat Hanratty and Frank Thompson.

9 ROSCREA Review Matt Hyland / Noel Windle Golf continued

Vincent Coyne presents the Noel Windle Cup to Kay Garvey.

Lean Hyland presents the Matt Hyland Cup to Greg Swift.

Refreshed after a day in the sun: Aidan McNulty, Yvonne and James Malone.

Vincent Coyne presents the Ladies’ Runner Up Prize to Yvonne Malone. Katherine Donovan gets a well deserved bouquet of flowers from the Chairman.

Roscrea Review 10 Meeting one of feature for the upcoming Roscrea CCR’s oldest Review. So I wrote to Denis at his known living address in Rathgar only to receive a Past Pupils letter from him a few weeks later, mentioning that the new owners This story started in May 2013 had forwarded his while I was still Union President post to his new and had recently sent a letter to address in all of the 3,300 past men asking Chigwell, in the U.K. if the details that we held on file Denis O’Donovan and Jim Keating. for them were correct. Over time Undaunted, I knew the returned questionnaires that I would be remembers the students having began arriving at my home travelling to London at Easter to nicknames. These were address. Out of curiosity I had see our grandaughter and rang generally based on sporting kept a note of the year that they Denis to let him know of my figures at the time, such as Joe had left the college - 1940s 1950s plans. He readily agreed to meet Louis and Buddy Baer. His own and 1960s. Yet no one from the me and, as I was thinking of nickname was based on a 1930s had returned until finally I writing an article for the Review, Wrestler of some prominence – received one from a pastman with his agreement I recorded he wonders did this mean that named Denis O’Donovan, who our conversation at his house in he must also have been not had attended the college Chigwell, Essex, on 18th April. beautiful to look at! The between 1936 and 1939, with a students were a great mixture of birth date of 1920, which would Denis was born in Cork in 1920. country, country towns and city now make him 93! I made a His father worked in London as boys. About 200 students were mental note of this pastman and a Post Office Clerk around the boarding at the time. pondered the idea of meeting up same time as Michael Collins but with him soon to perhaps record returned from England in 1924 He developed a love of the stage his recollections of his time in to work as a civil servant in under the guidance of Music CCR. Dublin. Denis went to the High Teacher, Herr Rudolf Raesfeldt. School in Rathgar for three He recalled playing Don I had subsequently forgotten all years, and continued his studies Alhambra del Bolero in The about Denis due to the fact that in Coláiste Mhuire in Parnell Gondoliers, The Learned Judge we had around this time, started Square until he was 16. His love in Trial by Jury and he sang a process of selling our house of the Irish language was The Last Rose of Summer in one and moving into Tullamore. We nurtured here. of the annual ‘Cats’ Concerts’. eventually sold our house and Denis arrived in CCR in moved in September of 2013. In He remembered Herr Raesfeldt September 1936 at the age of 16 March of this year while as being a great Music and and left in June 1939. He went searching through my CCR File, Drama teacher, and a strict on to tell me that he had had I happened to find the slip of disciplinarian. The students had wonderful memories of his time paper that I had kept belonging heard rumours that Herr to Denis. I contacted Pat in the College. Fr. Ailbe was Raesfeldt had been a U Boat Hanratty and told him about my President and liked by all of the Commander in the First World plan of contacting Denis for a boys. Father Gerard was very War. At the time, none of them possible interview. Pat kind to the boys and even at that had any inkling of the horrors immediately thought it was a time, was called the ‘Pan’, while that his country was starting to great idea and suggested that it Fr. Benignus had the nickname unleash on the world. could be used as a possible of Wolfe Tone! Indeed, he continued on page 12

11 ROSCREA Review Other memories Denis had of his School at the Curragh, and in the Congo in 1963, and time in CCR were of the newness recommended the Army to both Cyprus in 1966. He then entered of the Pavilion (only opened in of them as a career which should the Central Bank of Ireland in 1930), of a Brother and a local interest them. As we now know, 1968. workman being killed in June Aidan did in fact enter the Cadet 1936 during the building of the school and Air Corps, Denis had two sons, Ciaran and spire in the Monastery Church subsequently becoming one of Brendan, & one daughter, and that four monks and four their top pilots and later had a Catherine, who died in 2013. His pupils died in the typhus distinguished career with Aer wife, Kay, passed away in 1999. epidemic in late 1933. Lingus on the North Atlantic One of his sons is Caretaker in routes. Indeed Aidan was the the High School, Rathgar. Among Denis's mementos of his pilot of the plane that brought time in CCR is the Guest House Pope John Paul to Ireland in When I was saying my goodbye, Book that was always available 1979. But Denis went on to get Denis said that his greatest joy (for free) to any traveller visiting his Degree in UCD, spending a was that a Past President of the the Guest House, which included lot of time in the UCD Dramatic Union had taken the time to a poem he had written, in his Society, subsequently joining the come and visit someone as beloved Irish Language. (See Army as a Volunteer during the inconsequential (?) as him. below). Emergency. Footnote: I include here On his final day in the College Denis enjoyed his time in the photos I took of some of Fr. Ailbe – as was his custom – Army so much so, that he went Denis’s treasured ‘paraded’ Denis and his friend, on to join the Cadet School and memorabilia both from Aidan Quigley, into his office. was commissioned in 1941 and Roscrea and the Army. JK Ailbe showed them a photo of served for 28 years, retiring as some Army Cadets and some Commandant, having served two literature concerning the Cadet terms of United Nations service

Roscrea Review 12 HURLING Runners up were Johnny hope for weather like last year’s McDonnell’s team with 92 and a good turnout! SUPPORT points while in third place was a team from Centenary Co-op. The All patrons of the HSG event then College President were deeply saddened by the GROUP Marcelline Cody’s team came tragic death in a motor accident fourth and Union President - in January of Jim Nash’s Annual Golf Elect Frank Thompson’s team youngest son Barry (CCR 2006- took fifth place. ’12). Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Outing anam dílis. This year’s event will take place We are heartened to know that on Friday 4th July with a Jim will be involved again in Like most events held in Ireland shotgun start at 3.0 p.m. Let’s the organization of this year’s in July 2013, the Hurling event. Support Group’s annual golf outing took place in Roscrea GC in glorious sunshine – a very welcome change from 2012 and other recent years’ events.

Over 20 teams of four took part with excellent scores being posted. The winning team was that of Coláiste Phobal, Ros Cré, (Community College, Roscrea, which was formed in 1999 with the amalgamation of Sacred Heart Convent Secondary School, Roscrea Vocational School and the Christian Brothers School) with an The winning team from Coláiste Phobal, Ros Cré: John Haugh (Deputy amazing score of 96 points. Principal), Billy Conlan, Vera Smyth and Orla Egan.

Marcelline Cody’s team with their prizes. From left; HSG Secretary Ann McIntyre, Josephine Hickey, Kathleen Moylan, Jim Nash, Frank Thompson accepting a prize from Marcelline and Mary Fitzgerald. HSG Chairman Jim Nash on behalf of his team.

13 ROSCREA Review Dublin Dinner 2nd November 2013

The 2013 Dublin Dinner was Dublin Branch Chairman Vincent Coyne and CCR Union President Simon once again held in the Coyle with guests from other school unions: Gareth Halpin (St. Mary’s Davenport Hotel and was College), Peter Gray (Clongowes), Brian Kennedy (Gonzaga), Louise Scott attended by well over a (King’s Hospital), Brian Delahunty (Pres. Bray) and Kevin Broderick (St. Michael’s College). hundred pastmen as well as guests from other Unions. The guest speaker was former CCR teacher Brendán Ó Ruairc who entertained us brilliantly with stories from his days’ teaching and from his post-retirement career as a racing commentator and tipster.

The event again drew a very encouraging blend of pastmen From the class of ’68: Pat Keane, Jim Keating, Jim Ryan, from every decade from the Frank Thompson, Michael Coyle and Michael Haugh. 1940s through to the present one with the classes of 2007 and 2010 being particularly well represented.

NB, as listed on the Union Calendar this year’s Dublin Dinner will be held on the earlier date of Saturday 18th October in the Morrison Hotel, on Dom Richard, Tom Ambrose and a pensive Larry Branigan. Lower Ormond Quay.

All smiles as members of the class of ’84 reunite with their erstwhile Irish teacher. From left: Ronnie Culliton, Aidan Bergin, Peter Logan, Breandán O’Ruairc, Mark Redmond (House Captain), Bryan McCoy and John McGovern (SCT Captain).

Roscrea Review 14 Dublin Dinner continued

From the class of 2010: Damien Egan, Robert Durcan, Michael McCrohan, Emmet Ryan, Ross Farrell (House Captain), Lee Murray, Dublin Branch Chairman Vincent Oisin Kilgallen, Brian Moylett and Tomas Hanley. Coyne presents a bouquet of flowers to retired College President Marcelline Cody.

Members of the Class of 2007 with Union President-Elect Frank Two former Chairman of CCR Board Thompson: Back Row: Andrew Richardson, Eoghan Madigan, Neville of Governors: Conor O’Hara and Quinn, John Verling, Martin Feeney. Front Row: Frank Thompson, Diarmuid Ó Murchú. Brian O'Donnell, Joe Moran and Matthew Quinlivan.

Marcelline Cody with three B.Comm. graduates from the UCD class of 1973 – her husband Donncha and (left) From the class of ’65: Jim Coffey, Aidan McNulty, Frank Aidan O’Connell and (right) Gerry O’Meara, both from Cullen and John Sherry. the CCR class of 1970.

15 ROSCREA Review Inaugural Dublin Branch Business Lunch 14 June 2013

After much planning, detailed research and significant discussion, the Dublin Branch of the Union held its inaugural business lunch on 14 June 2013 in Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club. An impressive attendance of 60 past men heard Dick Spring (CCR 1963-’68) former Tanaiste and now Executive Vice Chairman of FEXCO discuss the merits of building relationships, followed by a typically robust round of questions and answers. The business lunch concept had been a much discussed Barry Connolly (2005) with his fa- Aidan McNulty (1965) and his son idea, reflective of a desire to tap into the deep well of the ther, Hurling legend Joe. Declan (1992). past pupil relationships. The Committee sought the support of a core group of past men, ably assisted by Union president Simon Coyle who gave the idea his enthusiastic support. Many venues were considered but following a meeting with Fitzwilliam, arranged by Aidan McNulty (whose daughter is the resident professional), the Appian Way club was the unanimous choice. The lunch was attractively priced at just €25, each attendee received a personalized name tag, Dublin branch business cards were printed and distributed and after the event a full list of contact details was circulated to all attendees. As in all well run organisations, a post mortem was conducted afterwards to identify the things which worked Michael McNamara (1970) and his Guest Speaker Cathal O’Connell and which could have been improved upon. The view of the son Troy (2005). (1986) in full flow! committee was that the event should become a permanent fixture in the Dublin branch event calendar.

2nd Lunch - 7 March 2014 Following the success of the inaugural business lunch in 2013, the Dublin Branch again put its shoulder to the wheel to arrange a second such event in March 2014. Publicising the event was certainly assisted by the billing of Cathal O’Connell from the class of 1986 and the founder and CEO of Paddy Wagon Tours as guest speaker. Taking on board the advice received from the 2013 event, a list of all attendees and their business contact details was Michael MacNamara (1970), Conor Brady (1966), Frank circulated in advance. The event was once again Brendan Phelan (1979) and David Thompson (1968) and Jim Coffey professionally hosted by the Fitzwillam Lawn Tennis club McDonagh (1980). (1965). who produced an excellent lunch. The quality of the food was commented upon by many of those who attended. The Dublin Branch was particularly delighted to welcome new College President Brendan Feehan to his first ever Union event. Proceedings were opened by Brendan who spoke enthusiastically of plans for the future of the College. Cathal proved to be an entertaining and engaging speaker who impressed his audience with tales of building and expanding a business in the cut-throat tourist sector. Ignoring the naysayers and with an eye for a publicity opportunity, Cathal’s business has grown from just two (unreliable) buses to one which now caries 90,000 customers a year across Ireland. Not one to rest on his Conor Massey (1959), Kieran Pat Keane and Jim Keating (both laurels, he has his eyes firmly set on expanding overseas. Fitzgerald (1979) and John Sherry 1968) with Mark Mulcahy (1997). The rumour is that Trafalgar Square is his next stop! We (1965). wish him well.

Roscrea Review 16 DDublinublin BDinnerranch continuedBusiness Lunches continued

Barry Connolly (2005), Fergal Guest Speaker Dick Spring (1968) Union President Simon Coyle Lawlor (2003) and Gareth Dolan with Frank Cullen (1965). (1972), Conor Brady (1966) and (2004). Sean McCann (1968).

The Chairman calls the gathering to Dick Spring speaking to a captive David Lucey, Eoghan Comerford order. audience. and Sinbad Wilmot, all from the class of 1989.

Tadhg Campion (1971) and Brendan Networking? David Lucey (1989) Declan Martin (1971), Colm Bergin Hyland (1969). and Ronan Whitty (1999). (2006) and Greg Swift (1975).

Brendan Phelan (1979), Ray Hernan Dom Richard with three from the class Ronan Whitty (1999) with (1982) and Justin Phelan (1979). of 1985, Don Harrington, Donal Taaffe David Hernan (1989). and Manus Agnew.

17 ROSCREA Review REUNION and few jobs were available at to university, others joined home. But they never got monasteries or seminars, others together as a group since June went to work in Ireland, and 1953. many emigrated. Through the Leaving good offices of the PPU, through It was over a glass of wine, in the Katherine O’Donovan, the Cert Class sunshine of Andalusia, in 2013, Development Officer at CCR, that a plot was hatched between and Google, we were able to two class members – Fr. Sean trace over ninety per cent of the of 1953 O’Toole and Michael O’Carroll - Class of 1953. Sadly 24 class to strike out and have a reunion. members had, by October 19, The project was encouraged by gone to God, including some another student from 1953 – high profile students such as Abbot Emeritus Dom Kevin Gus Martin, Liam Maloney, Sixty years could be a Daly, the Guest Master at Mount reasonable lifetime – two Gerry Culliton, Noel Maloney, Saint Joseph’s Abbey. The Dan Kennefick, Des Dockery, average generations. It is hard Abbot, Dom Richard Purcell, to believe that the Class of ’53 Noel McCarthy and Liam gave the project his approval; McDevitt. never had a reunion. The the date was set for October 19, members were scattered to 2013, and so the troika set about We failed to make contact with many parts of the world, most making the lists, checking them six – John Charles Efford, Donal with thoughts and reflections of twice and, if possible, finding Moran, Joe McElligott, Noel their days as students at CCR; some lost members. McElroy, Jim O’Regan and only a few years after the Hitler Barry O’Sullivan. Both Pat Cox war, when Ireland was In 1953 there was no automatic and John Chapman were staggering to its feet, when membership of the Past Pupil’s interested in the project, but emigration was a natural thing Union. Some graduates went on were not well enough to travel to

GROUP PHOTO TAKEN AFTER MASS IN THE COLLEGE CHAPEL. Front row: Fr. Sean O’Toole, Billy Furey, Ned Ryan, Brian O’Boyle, Dom Richard Purcell. Middle Row: Dom Kevin (Martin) Daly, Gerry Moroney, Dr. Joe Daly, Bill Lalor, Brian Banaghan, Dr. Richard Fogarty. Back Row: Pat Rafferty, Tom Condon,, Owen Fox, Tom Maher, Michael O’Carroll. (Inset bottom right: Billy Hayes and Tim Riordan who attended on the Sunday.)

Roscrea Review 18 Class of 1953 Reunion continued

Roscrea. Otherwise, there was much enthusiasm from at home and abroad, some indicating that they would attend, others saying they would love to but because of family or personal circumstances, they could not. On the day itself, Cyril Maguire, Tom Hastings and Billy Slattery, had to withdraw because of illness. Dom Kevin Daly and Dr. Richard Michael O’Carroll reads the lists Fogarty. from the Class of ’53 to be remem- So, on Saturday October 19th, bered – the dead, the ill, those in at- 2013, fifteen hardy souls tendance and those we were unable assembled at the Guest House to contact. circa 3 o’clock. Most had not met during those sixty eventful years. Bill Lalor travelled from Mississippi, USA; Gerry Maroney flew in from Saskathon, Canada; Brian O’Boyle came from Essex in the UK, while Tipperary was represented by Pat Rafferty. Ned Ryan, Fr. Sean O’Toole and Billy Hayes and Tim Reardon Brian Banaghan in the old Billiard Room, now the Centenary Room. Tom Maher and Michael O’Carroll. had a prior engagement, so they checked in from Tipperary, for breakfast on the Sunday morning. Others in attendance were Tom Condon, Dr. Joe Daly, Dr. Richard Fogarty, Owen Fox, Brian Banaghan, Tom Maher, Ned Ryan and Billy Furey. Mass was celebrated by the Abbot in the College Chapel at four Pat Rafferty at those very Tom Condon and Fr. Sean O’Toole. o’clock, and concelebrated by familiar stairs! Dom Kevin and Fr. Sean O’Toole, both from the class of ‘53. The College Choir sang at the guests were taken on a tour regulations. Ireland is still the mass after the lists of the of the College’s modern facilities rearing some strange rule- dead, the sick and those to be by some senior students, all of makers! remembered, were read by whom told of their love for their There followed a reception in Michael O’Carroll. Abbot alma mater, the food, the study the lounge of the Guest House, Richard’s homily was inspiring, facilities, the sport activities and where a DVD was shown telling of the modern CCR, the their admiration for the teaching depicting the ’50s at CCR, as objectives, its philosophy, the staff. The Gym, Swimming Pool well as more modern aspects. challenges and plans for the and Sports Hall facilities were Thanks to Tom Hastings and future. impressive, as were the state of Billy Hayes for some excellent the playing pitches. But gone After Mass the official photographs. Each person was Fr Austin’s museum, as a photographs were executed and attending got a copy of the DVD result of health and safety

19 ROSCREA Review Class of 1953 Reunion continued

and a copy was sent to every person still alive on the list from1953. The DVD with music was put together by Charles D. Byrne, formerly of RTE TV. It was well received by those at the reception which included Cistercian monk Fr Flannan Hogan, the house Captain, from 1952, and the Leinster and All- Ireland shot-putt champion from that same year. Also Billy Furey, Tom Maher, Michael O’Carroll and Gerry Moroney. present was Dom Peter Garvey, the former College President and Abbot of Moone Abbey, Co. Kildare. Dinner followed, which had as its guests of honour Abbot Purcell and Simon Coyle, the President of the Past Pupil’s Union. It was a lavish affair, thanks to Chef Marc Loughnane and his staff. I am glad to report Brian O’Boyle and Fr. Peter Garvey. An inspiring homily from Dom that all the students from 1953 Richard. behaved themselves admirable. No tuck boxes and no abuse of butter! After dinner the party retired to the lounge where the memorable day was completed with a variety of night-caps, courtesy of the Guest Master. Pat Mulhall’s message from Canberra, Australia was passed around, and commented upon. Thanks Pat! Sunday morning and the party Joe Daly and Bill Lalor. Ned Ryan and Owen Fox. reassembled for breakfast in the dining room, to be joined by Billy Hayes and Tim Reardon. More chat, more memories The reunion ended with Mass in many messages of appreciation; jogged, and although Brian the monastery church at 10.30 - because it was organised in the Banaghan was supposed to another nostalgic occasion with first place and also because there return to his home in Nenagh on beautiful Gregorian chant from was great chat, many stories Saturday night, he stayed talking the joint College-Monastery about fellow students, the many so late that the security gates choir. Our thanks to the monks and teachers that looked were all locked by the time he Cistercian Community for after us so long ago. It was really tried to leave. He found a making so many elderly men a magic weekend. The craic was comfortable bed and, as was his happy! It was estimated that the mighty! right, he paraded to breakfast oldest in attendance was 79 and like the rest. There is no better Michael O’Carroll the youngest 75. Since that way to start a day than with an weekend we were pleased to get Irish breakfast.

Roscrea Review 20 happening on the ground rather A Return to than what the plans and policies said about the towns. The study Education focussed on the successes and failures in each of the case study Brian Maher towns and advises on best practice for community engagement with (CCR 1972 - ’77) the planning system. This study can offer insights to other towns and communities as to how they might engage positively with CCR past student (1972-’77) and planning for the future of their Abbeyleix man Brian Maher has towns. recently graduated from Dublin Brian is highly involved with the Institute of Technology with an community in Abbeyleix as MSc in Spatial Planning (Town Chairman of the Abbeyleix as a meal ticket. Some of his Planning). Brian completed the Business & Community Forum 2½ year part time programme classmates from CCR might find it (ABC) as well as being a director of funny that a “dosser” who avoided with a 2:1 degree and graduated at the Abbeyleix Heritage Company. a ceremony in St Patricks study with such diligence has now He is a member of Laois embraced study as a positive Cathedral. Brian has worked in the Environmental Action Forum architectural profession for over paradigm. The term “better late (LEAF) as well as being the than never” applies. 30 years in Ireland and the UK and environmental representative on has extensive experience of the Laois County Council Planning, Brian found the 2 ½ year part- planning in Ireland having been Development and Environment time programme passed very involved in master planning on Strategic Policy Committee. Brian quickly and involved a lot of many medium and large scale is married to Abbeyleix woman reading around the subject but commercial and housing projects. Ann Robinson and has 2 teenage most interestingly gave access to a Due to the construction downturn sons Robert and Drew. Brian and lot of local authority planning Brian like many other construction his family have lived for the past 10 departments as well as other professionals was forced to years in Abbeyleix after almost 20 research bodies. The collegiate consider diversifying and chose to years living and working in spirit that exists within the upskill to become a professional London. profession was a revelation planner as an addition to his compared with the secretive nature architectural skills at 51 years of Brian is very keen to dispel the of other construction professions. age. Having completed the Irish myth that you are ever too old to The information sharing and Planning Institute accredited return to education and to advocate collaborative engagement was very programme at DIT’s School of the concept of lifelong learning. engaging and the active graduate Environment and Planning, Brian The class of which Brian graduated alumni network is also very is now offering his experience as a included two people in their 30’s, refreshing. Brian likens this to planning consultant in Abbeyleix. two in their 50’s and a man who becoming part of a new family. was a retired professional man with Brian’s thesis was on the subject of a previous community participation with the doctorate in a Irish planning system and looked related at 4 case study towns including discipline. The Cashel Co. Tipperary, Clonakilty fact is when you Co. Cork, Dingle Co. Kerry and his decide to return home town of Abbeyleix. The to study as a research looked at how mature student communities engage with the it is usually to development plan-making process study a subject and the effectiveness or otherwise that you will of this engagement. Brian visited have a and met with planners, particular administrators, elected passion for, representatives, community rather than to representatives, Chambers of approach the Commerce amongst others to study area Drew, Brian, Robert and Annie Maher at Brian’s establish what was actually graduation at St Patrick’s Cathedral.

21 ROSCREA Review REUNION Halfway through the meal Vinny Browne and John Class of Hand arrived having been in the depths of Co. 1983 Carlow at a book event. Guest of honour for the night was Breandán O’Ruairc A stalwart group of just over 20 who delivered a comrades met in early speech in English September 2013. Some early and Irish. He spoke birds played golf in Roscrea in of the bond Fr. Peter, Colm O'Toole, Dom Colmcille, the afternoon – despite our between teachers Breandán Ó Ruairc and Peter Daly. increased experience levels, the and students and Abbot’s Cup continues to elude the interest which banter were exchanged. The us as a group. The class of ’63 teachers have in keeping in majority repaired back to the invited us to join them for a touch with and hearing about bar and the conversation kept Mass at which deceased past their former students. The Abbot going through the night and, students, including Joe Hardy and President of the Past even after after a substantial from our year, were students union also gave breakfast, some new remembered. There was a speeches. Joe O’Shea paid perspectives were still being reception in the Senior Ref tribute to Fr. Peter who was also added. where we met up with Mr. invited but was unable to come Shanahan, Fr. Peter and Dom and wished him well. Unfortunately there were some Colmcille all looking hearty and who intended to come but were in good spirits. There were then numerous unable to make it for a variety of speeches with Paul Kinirons reasons including Eoin It was then onto Birr where the acting as anchorman. Michael McCarthy who helped a lot with main gathering took place at the McGovern spoke about life in organizing the reunion. We wish County Arms Hotel. Cormac the dormitories. Colm O’Toole all the best and look forward to Ryan with his press experience gave his perspective as a teacher the next one. acted as unofficial himself now. Anecdotes and photographer. In fact he seemed to be the only one able to produce a few photos from the night! Past class members came from all four corners of the country - Daithí O’Connor up from the Kingdom, John Walsh from Leitrim, Michael O’Gara up from Wexford and a large contingent from the Pale and surrounding counties including Liam Dwan, Fergus O’Regan and David Shiels. Some people were more local with Conor Taaffe living very close to the college and John Dunne and Colm O’Toole also based in the midlands. David O’Brien and Class of 1983: Back row (some faces obscured): Morgan Keane, Michael McGovern, David Sheils, Liam Dwan, Michael O'Gara, Paul Kinirons, James Gleeson came up Daithí O'Connor, John Walsh, David O'Brien, Conor Taaffe, John Dunne. together from South Tipp. John Middle row: James Gleeson, Breandán Ó Ruairc, Dom Richard, Colm Roche came over from Munich. O’Toole, Vinnie Browne, John Hand, Joe O'Shea Front row: Pat O'Donnell, Fergus O'Regan, John Roche, Cormac Ryan.

Roscrea Review 22 REUNION Class of 1963

It has happened! The Class of ’63 has passed the half-century! I am reminded of lines composed by a pre-Famine Kerry poet: Trí shaoghail ‘siad is eol dom do chuala fós - / Saoghal éadtrom, aerach im’ buachaill óg / Saoghal léanmhar, céasta, ag beathú scuaine óig / á’s an saoghal déidheannach so Back row: John Monks, Tom Mulherin, Gordon Ballantyne, Michael im’aonar, ag siubhal na ród’ (‘Three O’Neill, Des Houlihan, Frank Canavan, Jim Keating, William Staunton, lives I have known: as a little boy / John White. A life of lightsome, carefree joy / A Middle row: James Quain, John Mulligan, Pat Ryan, Peter Ahearn, Liam second life toilsome, bringing up Burke, Philip McGovern, Michael Sweeney, William Conway, Daniel broods / And this last life - trudging Sheedy, Joe Doyle. alone the roads.’)

As on previous occasions the few changes to be remarked on! Mass; Anthony Bardon providing driving force behind our reunion Dinner runs late into the night. the musical accompaniment has been Anthony Bardon, assisted Next morning the golfers and the throughout. After mass a memorial by his brother James, Paddy culturally-minded go their separate tree, an evergreen cotoneaster Cunneen, Ger Lyne and Tom ways – the latter to Birr Castle and pendula, is planted by Tom Grennan. A total of some twenty the gardens and great telescope of Grennan, ably assisted by Willie eight attendees have signed up for the third Earl of Rosse. That Staunton, dairy farmer and father the event – a respectable number. afternoon people begin to assemble of Jeremy and William, two Fortunately, Ger Lyne has been at the College from around 3 p.m. illustrious rugby players. Maireann spared a trudge all the way to our Prominent is the dashing Mick an craobh ar an bhfál, ach ni reunion: Joe Doyle, veteran of Sweeney, in his open-topped maireann an lámh do chur! Long Montrose, agrees to give him a lift Morgan, who arrives under envious may the tree outlive us! to the College, where we arrive on eyes. Liam Burke, indefatigable It strikes some people that the the afternoon of Saturday 14 thespian, manages to cadge a lift occasion is more laid back than September. Eighteen of our with Mick back to the hotel – an usual – due, perhaps, to retirement classmates have already been experience, one imagines, to and attendant lack of pressure. Of assembled since the previous remember. evening for dinner and golf the those attending, pride of place goes following morning. Our former To the surprise of all concerned, to a youthful, ebullient and (dare house captain, Tom Grennan, is however, we find on arrival the we say) prosperous Jim Keating, among them . Already he has great front doors of the College who has travelled all the way from collected John Monks, flying in closed against us! Impregnable - as Canada. (Our Jim Keating, not last from the neighbouring island, and a medieval castle! However, shortly year’s Union President of the same Liam Burke, from our own capital. before 5 pm, Bernie, the household name!) A close contender is John As Tom observes, our hotel - an manager, throws open the main Mulligan, who has come from the eighteenth-century pile with 21st- door and the reunion is officially neighbouring island. Space century interior - stands under way. It commences with Mass precludes us from listing all the comfortable and inviting. in the College Oratory which was other attendees, but perhaps we also attended by the 1983 pastmen. may be allowed single out old The gathering on the Friday The celebrant was the Lord Abbot, friends such as James T. Quain evening consists of some dedicated Dom Richard, assisted by former from Cork, that decent man Frank golfers and others wanting to Abbot, Fr Kevin. Dom Richard Canavan from Tuam , and Teddy extend the reunion. Gathering in delivers an appropriate homily. A Forde, who shared train journeys the lounge they are presented with candle ceremony, in memory of with Ger Lyne at holiday time from photo id’s taken from the 1963 class deceased classmates, preceded the Ballybrophy to Killarney. Also in photo – fifty years on there are a

23 ROSCREA Review Class of 1963 Reunion continued attendance was Fr. Peter Ahearne, classmates in favour of those suite facilities for the 6th year our only remaining cleric from the deriving from more rustic roots. He students! class of ’63. He didn’t have too far to recalls that: ‘A small group came Then Simon Coyle, President of the come, he is P.P. of nearby Lisronagh from Dublin – from places like College Union, addresses us. He parish in Tipperary. Skerries and Rush. We wondered compliments us on our affection for had they no schools to go to up The obligatory photo call is held at the College after the lapse of fifty there? However, if you listened the traditional venue before the years and goes on to provide us carefully you could understand main door. Viewing it a week later with an update on Union affairs. what they were saying!’ He adds brings home to me how ruthless is Noting that our gathering is an that, at a later stage, they began the ageing process, and the meaning individual class initiative speaking ‘normally’! He recalls the of the belief among ancient classical unconnected with the Union, he loneliness of small boys deprived of writers that those whom the Gods expresses the view that the latter their mothers and remembers with love die young. I also note that an should make a greater effort to affection ‘the three wonderful nuns’ individual (who shall be nameless) connect with past students such as (in particular ‘the tall Sister Rita’) has arrogated to himself the space ourselves. Standing in the nurses and surrogate mothers all. immediately to the Lord Abbot’s background as Simon speaks, we He quotes the erudite Dom Eugene right. What hubris! What note a former Union President, Boylan’s reassuring words: ‘I cannot presumption! Our House Captain, friend and near-contemporary, believe but that all of you will go to however, with characteristic Aidan McNulty, as well as Pat heaven’. modesty and dignity, places himself Hanratty, editor of the Roscrea on the Lord Abbot’s left. Friend, sit The lessons in table etiquette of the Review and recent Union President. thee higher at table! College President, Fr Declan, are Another late night spent remembered with affection, There follows a pleasant reception reminiscing but next morning, including his recipe for the deft in the College. Among those bright-eyed and bushy-tailed to a consumption of peas from a knife present, spruce and hale and hearty, man, we attend the annual Mass for smeared with honey (his rugged is John Shanahan, one of our last deceased past pupils, especially manner and exterior belied both a surviving teachers. Seeing him those who had died during the year. mischievous sense of humour and a transports me back to his 5A/6A Intimations of mortality! After the kind heart). He recalls Fr Éanna French classes, where he so ably Mass some of the group head for (still with us) and Fathers Andrew, expounded not only the niceties of the Guest House where they meet Benedict, Edmund and Gerard. (I French grammar and vocabulary, with Fr. Éanna, with more am reminded of the latter once but a magical novel by the Breton reminiscences of school life in the telling me, touchingly, close to the author, Pierre Loti, entitled late ‘50s and early ‘60s. Pecheur d’Islande - a powerful story end of my time in College, that the Finally, to return to the after dinner of love, loss and the sea. I remind monastic vocation grew heavier – speeches: James Bardon delivers a him and he remembers. Dom not lighter – with age). And he brief but arresting oration. He Colmcille, Dean of Studies in our presents a portrait of the marvellous notes that memory is fallible and day and former Abbot was also in Gus Martin, representative of a new reminiscence, in consequence, attendance. He too brought back era, brilliant English teacher and selective. He concludes by quoting memories of those far off days. raconteur and later, in Dublin, best of companions to all past students the wise words of an officiating Afterwards we take ourselves to the of the College – cruelly cut down in priest at a wedding which he County Arms Hotel in Birr for his intellectual prime. At this time recently attended: ‘May you have further refreshments and dinner. At Mount St Joseph had a community enough adversities to make you least one of us, who shall again be of some 100 monks. What changes strong, enough failures to make you nameless, is by now, so to speak, we have seen! In reply Dom humble, enough success to keep refreshed to distraction! But then, Richard congratulates us on our you motivated, enough challenges to quote W.B. Yeats: ‘Why should longevity, he being a mere stripling to keep you young, enough sorrow not old men be mad?’ of some forty odd years. He spoke of to keep you human and enough In proposing the toast to the College the mission of the College as being blessings to keep you joyous and and Community Des Houlihan (that primarily to mould the character of happy!’ best of Clare gentlemen) delivers a the students to the best of the ability For all of us, that seems an characteristically eloquent, urbane of the staff. He referred to the appropriate note on which to end. and witty speech. I am particularly difficulties in this economic Ger Lyne and Tom Grennan taken by his neat turning of the downturn. But the future looks tables on the metropolitan bright for a school that has as its sophisticates among our former next project the provision of en

Roscrea Review 24 and to speak well are two different things. Gerry did The Passing the latter and gave us so much pleasure in our listening to him. Behind the bon viveur lived un of Gerry homme serieux with trenchant and, I generally considered, enlightened views on life and Maher education. His awareness of tradition cannot be questioned and it is a great pity that natural The CCR diaspora received an almighty shock last conservatism that is, in many cases a fellow- October with the sudden death of Gerry Maher. traveller of tradition, could not accommodate the Gerry was in CCR from 1967 to 1972, the son of Liam touch of the Bohemian in his soul. Maher and from 1977 he was a member of staff himself. Only last year, the Roscrea Review I have always considered teaching to be the noblest contained a tribute to him to mark his retirement profession and Gerry represented perfectly the from teaching. Many tributes have been paid to him many-faceted attributes of the good teacher. since his death Always present in the background was his droll Gerry Maher introduced Media Studies to CCR during sense of humour. One day in class, he asked how my time there. I was part of the second ever class in It seems appropriate to include in this issue a warm many contributed workwise at home. Amongst the subject in 1986. It was an extra-curricular personal tribute from his great friend and fellow those who raised their hands was my late son, activity during evening study, and involved the former Union President Conor Massey and two Zebedee, a lone Dub among many sons of the soil. close reading of newspapers, together with the messages from pupils he inspired: Harvey O’Brien “No, no Zeb”, Gerry said to him, “putting your dirty study of television (including the general election (CCR 1983-’88) Lecturer in Film Studies in UCD and plate in the dishwasher doesn’t count!” that year) and film. When I left Roscrea, I first Doug Greally (CCR 1983-’86) a Radiologist with studied journalism, and having had that experience Mountain Medical Physician Specialists in Utah. John Donne wrote that any man’s death diminished of being aware of patterns of power and Along with these I felt we should publish the him because he was involved in mankind. Gerry’s representational processes in the media informed by beautiful email I received from his daughter Fiona death diminished us because he himself was so capacity to engage both at third level as a student some days after Gerry’s funeral. implicit in mankind. He rejoiced in social intercourse and professionally as a writer. I went on to study and was always ready to contribute, to participate The passing of Gerry Maher last year was the most Communications at DCU, and as Gerry would have and empathise. He didn’t skulk or sulk. He spoke his shocking occurrence in recent Roscrea memory. Just known, because I told him, I dedicated by BA thesis mind, he wore his honour like a shield and let when smiling freely again he was snatched from us. to him and acknowledged his inspiration for my detractors pass him like an idle wind. He was the His family, naturally are the ones whom the sword work. I met him several times again over the years master of the mot juste. pierced deepest, but the rest of us have felt the when I came back to speak to the TY students, and wound too. A man’s dying is more the survivors’ We are poorer for his passing. He is now with his old so forth, and he knew that I had continued where he affair than his own and hardly has a death affected friend Noel Windle – another true Roscrea man. I left off. I now hold a PhD and teach Film Studies at us so profoundly. hope they are raising beakers full of the warm south UCD. My road continues on directly from Gerry together to the old days when we all had such Maher's teaching (and from his father's tutelage in He had been such a large part of CCR during his happy times together at all kinds of CCR related public speaking, which I now do professionally lifetime and memories of him abound. He was a events! every day), and I feel privileged to have been the Renaissance man, urbane, literary and eloquent. recipient of his (and his father's) guidance on my Talking and eloquence are not the same: to speak Conor Massey first steps. Harvey O’Brien Text of an email I received from Fiona Maher, shortly after Gerry’s funeral: There is no doubt that Gerry Maher was one of the Hi Pat, greatest teachers that Cistercian College Roscrea ever had. He embodied a lot of what that great I just wanted to write you a note of thanks that I hope you could pass on school stands for. His wit and intelligence will be to all the past pupils for me. Now that everything has settled a bit, I missed. My personal favourite memory of Gerry will wanted to thank the PPU for the overwhelming level and support and be his response when he heard I had somehow respect they showed at Dad’s funeral last week. CCR was a huge part of managed to get into Medical school, saying " I his life for so many years, from our Grandad teaching there, to growing and learning there as a teen, to returning to teach there until his wouldn't want him looking after me". The irony retirement. 'CCR standards' was a great expression in our house being that he died in the USA , and it would have growing up!! As it was such a big part of his life, I know Dad would have been an honour to look after him. May he rest in been incredibly touched and proud of everything you all did last week, peace, along with all the good memories, including from the sheer volume of past pupils who attended, the beautiful guard "5 treatments", hanging off the blackboard reciting of honour, and his old friends escorting him on his final journey, and it Keats, and catching us smoking on the golf course. meant a massive amount to me and my whole family, so I just wanted to say thank you to you all. It is something that we will never forget. Doug Greally, posted on Facebook Best, Fiona Maher

25 ROSCREA Review London Dinner 21 Feb. 2014

The London Branch held their bi-annual dinner on the 21st Feb 2014.There was a great turn out for the occasion and it was nice to see some new faces this year as well as the regular loyal Simon, Brendan and Fergal. supporters. All present enjoyed good food, with all the College and Union away suddenly on the 7th June. wine and conversation in the news. One of the staunchest London Branch members wish to RAF Club London. The London supporters of the event over the extend their sympathies to his Branch would like to thank the years, John McNamara had wife Andrée, daughter Laura and College President and the Union hoped to attend, but was too ill. all his family. President for attending and Sadly, as mentioned elsewhere It is hoped to hold an annual bringing everyone up to date in this Review, John passed dinner from 2015 onwards.

Some of the men who attended the London Dinner: Pat O’Grady, John O’Shea, Shane O’Donoghue, Gerard O’Meara, Dermot Hurley, Brian Flynn (London Committee), Gerard Fergal Keane (London Branch Chairman), College President Mr. Brendan Feehan, Tim O’Dwyer, Donald Gallivan (London Committee), Anthony Bennett, Jim Keating, Finbarr Bennett, Union President Simon Coyle, Paul Hernon, Manus Moran, Michael Grace, John Yurky, Noel Gallivan, and Michael McNamara.

Fr. Flannan Hogan (CCR 1947-’52) died in the monastery on 3rd July 2014, having suffered a massive stroke the previous weekend. Mount St Joseph had been his home since 1947 when the young Tony Hogan came to the College as a First Year student from Cloughjordan, the eldest of three brothers. A bright student and keen hurler, he shone in athletics and in 1952 was the All-Ireland discus and shot putt champion. A popular student too, he was elected house captain in his final year in the College and was one of four college students to enter the monastery that year on 15 August. On entering the monastery Tony was given the name of the patron of the diocese of Killaloe, St Flannan. He made first profession in October 1954, solemn profession three years later and was ordained to the priesthood on 21 September 1959. Soon after he was assigned to the College as a Dean of Discipline in addition to his responsibilities as teacher of History, French and Latin. Fr Flannan was also gamesmaster for a period during those years. In the wake of Vatican II when it became possible for monks to attend universities in Ireland Fr Flannan went to St Patrick’s College, Maynooth where he studied for a B.A. and H.Dip.Ed., followed by a M.A. focusing on Irish Cistercian history in the medieval period. On his return to Mount St. Joseph he resumed his teaching duties in the College until the late 1980s when he was appointed librarian in the monastery, a position he held until 2000. A hidden but significant contribution that Fr Flannan made to Mt St Joseph for over 35 years was as confessor in the Public Church, a service that was greatly appreciated by those who came to the monastery for confession. In the confessional he was always gentle, approachable and affirming in bestowing God’s grace and forgiveness. His sudden illness came as a shock to us in the monastery, to Fr Flannan’s family and to his many friends and contacts. He received great care in the monastery infirmary where he died peacefully, surrounded by some of his monastic brothers and family. May he rest in peace.

Roscrea Review 26 Abbot’s Cup 2013

The 2013 Abbot’s Cup was played in beautiful September sunshine on Saturday 14th September. I was in a threeball with classmate John Cunningham and Michael Brody, both of whom had great moments. John, in fact won the Front Nine prize, but as we worked our way through the back nine, Michael Brody’s game was getting better and better, and going into the clubhouse he would have been forgiven for thinking that with a super score of 42 points he might have repeated his 2006 victory. Little did he know at the time, that he would not even A winner all right! Dom Richard Purcell presents the Abbot’s Cup to a be runner up - Tom Callanan on a delighted Ronnie Culliton. countback had that honour.

Round of the day (of the century?) was that of Ronnie Culliton who had a spectacular 47 points, off a handicap of 8. Wouldn’t his late father Gerry be proud of him! To cap it all Ronnie’s wife Sharon had the best ladies’ round with 33 points. With son Lucas in first year, we can expect the Cullitons to be competing in Roscrea GC in September for years to come!

Johnny Dolan presents the prize Sharon Culltion receiving the for the best back nine (21 points) Ladies’ Prize from Union President to his classmate from 1972, Union Simon Coyle. President Simon Coyle.

Another one for the Class of ’72 as One for the grandchildren! A very happy Michael Brody John O’Meara collects the prize for Sharon and Ronnie Culliton on a accepting 3rd Prize from Union best gross score (41 pts) outside the day to remember for both of President Simon Coyle. Top 3. them.

27 ROSCREA Review NEWS OF PASTMEN...NEWS OF PASTMEN..

G There is a fair bit of news Busy times ahead for Fergal Liam’s brother John about pastmen sprinkled who left the ‘safety’ of Breen (CCR 1989-’94), throughout this Review, Rabobank to set up Three Rock married Helen Wycherley from but anyone looking for Capital last year. Rosscarbery, Co. Cork in more, especially about October 2013. John is also an people’s careers need only G engineer and Helen is an open the CCR Alumni page Wayne Noonan (CCR accountant. on Linkedin, where there 2003-’09) graduated from Griffith College, Limerick with are hundreds of CCR G pastmen. a B.A. (Hons.) in Business. David and Colin Mernagh (CCR 1985-’90 and G 1988-’93 nowadays are deeply Three members of the Dublin Austin Murphy (CCR involved in the family business Branch Committee had 2001-’04) captained Clara to – Killiane Castle Country significant events recently. glory in the fiercely competitive House and Farm, Drinagh, Co. Kilkenny Senior Hurling Club Wexford. It is a working farm scene where they won a League G of 230 acres with 70 cows as David Hernan (CCR and Championship double in well as a luxurious guest house 1983-’89) and his wife Sue had 2013. Conor Phelan (CCR ideally situated close to both a baby boy, Jesse, provisionally 1996-2002) also starred for Wexford and Rosslare. enrolled for CCR for September Clara in that win – despite 2026. David is National having given up the game on G Account Manager for Bulmers. medical advice some years Both Conor Brady (CCR earlier having been diagnosed 1962-’66) and Pete Hogan G with a rare heart condition. For (1963 –’68) whose books were Emmet Thompson (CCR an emotional interview which mentioned in previous Roscrea 1995-2001) married Marie shows what winning a county Reviews have been busy again. Jago in June 2014. Emmet, final means to any GAA Conor followed up his first having qualified from medicine member listen to this Youtube detective novel set in the 1880s in 2007, is currently finishing a clip. with The Eloquence of the PhD in Tissue Engineering and http://www.youtube.com/watc Dead a fascinating adventure Regenerative Medicine and h?v=L4xYAtnCnjs. lectures in clinical anatomy to from the same period. the undergraduate medical Pete’s latest volume The Artist G students at the Royal College of Liam Breen (CCR 1994- on the Island, An Achill Surgeons in Ireland. ’98) from Pallasgreen, Co. Journal was published in Limerick married Sarah Brody December 2013. In it he G from Port Laoise in August describes how he spent a Fergal Cox (CCR 1987-’92) 2013. Liam is one of six winter as the only inhabitant of got engaged to Hazel O’Dowd, brothers who attended CCR Achillbeg Island off the Mayo a Primary School Teacher from between 1989 and 2004. Sarah coast with illustrations. Moate. They plan to marry next is a daughter of Michael Brody February with the reception in (CCR 1963-’68) and a brother Glasson golf Club, owned by of David (CCR 1995-2001). Tom Reid whose son Frank was Liam is an engineer and Sarah a year ahead of Fergal in CCR. is a dentist.

Roscrea Review 28 The teacher (English as an Additional Language.) In 2010 Marcelline achieved Retirement another first when she was appointed College President and of Marcelline became the College’s answer to Mary Robinson. In her time as President she used her warmth to Cody ensure that all were made welcome to the College - new, present and past students, and parents and all This time last year the CCR world greeted with a smile. was stunned to hear that Marcelline Her maternal nature ensured that Cody had taken early retirement her duty of care was evident from her post as President of the everyday in her interactions with College. Though in fact only on the the students, and this was so staff since September 2000, she important in the context of a seven I speak as the mother of a boy who made an enormous impact in her day boarding school being a home was in the College during time there. A native of Dublin she away from home. Marcelline’s time, but I also speak joined the College as an Irish and When students received their as the wife of a past pupil. My Geography teacher having Leaving cert results and left her husband Kevin* and his brothers previously worked in Ferbane, Co. office for the last time her final Edward and Jim are all past Offaly and quickly developed a words to each student were always students of CCR, and so it is fair to reputation as an excellent teacher “Mind yourself.” say that I can never remember who worked very hard to prepare all making the decision to send Shane Her commitment to and rapport of her students to achieve their best to school in Roscrea – it was with the Union was legendary, and in these subjects. something that was always while she will be sorely missed, understood between Kevin and She supported the full College from the Union point of view it is myself, and indeed Shane! curriculum and attended every quite evident that she is NOT going College event. She helped promote a away anytime soon. I’m sure all of you mothers in the love of Irish culture through her All in the Union wish her a long and room will relate to the feelings of work with Irish debating and her happy retirement. concern, trepidation and yes, even interest in GAA and indeed all a little sadness as we took our At the recent very successful South sports. Her own love of sport led oldest child and only boy, with East Branch Dinner in Kilkenny, a her to work in managing the golf carefully packed suitcase to the presentation was made to and tennis teams, two sports that College on that August evening in Marcelline. At that Dinner, Eileen she plays herself. 2006. Shane, bursting with Kelly delivered a wonderful tribute In the year of the College Centenary excitement, and me trying to hold to Marcelline which we now print in she was instrumental in organising back the tears; Kevin trying to keep full. the Concert held in the Monastery it all together for everybody, whilst Church in which Mícháel O he himself was having flashbacks Súílleabháin from the Music Dept in A CCR parent’s to thirty years earlier! the University of Limerick and his Whilst Marcelline was not College orchestra performed. tribute to President at the time, she was In 2006 she became the first female Marcelline Cody Principal of the School and her Principal of the College and during approach and many talents which this time she quickly organised to Eileen Kelly – at the South East were evidenced on that evening get ICT funding from the Dept and Branch Dinner 3rd May 2014. remained a constant throughout set about equipping all classrooms the next six years. She instilled in with data projectors and us such confidence in our decision laptops. The three Science When Pat O’Shea asked me to say a and showed us such kindness that laboratories and preparation room few words on behalf of the parents evening – memories which were upgraded to include modern of the boys I was genuinely remained with us throughout our benches, storage facilities, and new delighted. My delight waned journey home and indeed flooring and seating. slightly when Pat went on to tell me throughout Shane’s journey Successful applications were made that I would be speaking in the through school. to the Allocations section of the company of Abbot Richard, Fr. Marcelline was always present! I DES and this led to two new Peter and Union President, Simon. don’t think we ever visited the appointments on the teaching staff, So tonight my words will be few College without meeting her – she a Resource teacher and an EAL but very sincere and heartfelt.

29 ROSCREA Review Marcelline Cody tribute continued

came forward all the time and we always felt that she was genuinely pleased to see us. She was personable and approachable, and made an effort from that first night to know all the boys and indeed all their parents. We rarely had to ask to see her – she was always there! Whether it was the annual visit to the Opera, regular Rugby matches, Parent-Teacher Meetings, the Christmas Carol Service, or of course the very occasional phone call or visit when we had a concern or a problem, Marcelline was always there – on the front line – and our issues were sorted, efficiently and with her abundance of common sense and understanding. South East Branch Chairman Rob O’Shea and Marcelline Cody. She was welcoming, interested, enthusiastic, very helpful and we always felt that she genuinely liked and wanted the very best for every boy in her care! It also has to be said that I never failed to be in awe of her energy when I opened the Roscrea Review and saw her picture on nearly every page attending Dinners, Concerts, Debated and Golf outings all over the country – and always in a different outfit! So, there are my thoughts and memories of Marcelline: those of a mother / a parent. Of course the ultimate tests are the thoughts of Eileen Kelly gets a well deserved bouquet of flowers from the Chairman the boys! The ultimate compliment after giving an excellent tribute speech honouring Marcelline Cody’s – and so, to conclude: when I retirement. mentioned to Shane during the week that I had been asked to say these few words he took a second and replied: “Sure that will be easy, Mum; you’ll have plenty of good things to say about Mrs. Cody!!” And so it gives me great pleasure to wish Marcelline and Donncha and their family every good wish and health and happiness for the future. Eileen’s husband is Kevin Kelly (CCR 1975-’80) and their son Shane was House Captain in 2011-’12.

Rob O’Shea presents Caroline Coyle with a floral arrangement.

Roscrea Review 30 Marcelline Cody tribute continued

Charlie Scroope (centre) who only spent a year (1947- ’48) in CCR but who regularly travels from Toronto to attend the New York Dinner just happened to be at a family wedding at the time of the SE Dinner and came along with his cousins Peter (left) and Paul Scroope. Caitríona and Liam O’Shea Charlie’s packaging and container firm is aptly called Roscrea Enterprises!

Fergal Cox with Con Moloney, father of Rory (CCR 2007-’13) The Godfather of the Union President Simon who recently starred with the South East Branch, Dom Richard says a few Coyle addressing the Ireland U-20 Rugby World Cup Pat O’Shea. words. gathering. team.

Dom Peter and Ed Hearne (CCR 1997-2002) All smiles from Ronnie Culliton, Liam O’Shea and Con Moloney. Two sporting legends: Ned Byrne (CCR 1959-’64) and Joe Connolly former CCR parent. Ned is the only man to have won an All-Ireland Hurling medal (Kilkenny v Cork, 1972) and gone on to be capped at Rugby for Ireland. Joe’s speech after captaining Galway to their first All-Ireland in 57 years in 1980 is regarded as the Paul O’Shea presnts a raffle prize to Helen best such speech ever. Comerford.

31 ROSCREA Review Class of 1987 Reunion

The CCR class of '87 held their silver jubilee reunion a year or so late in the rarified environs of Doheny & Nesbitts on Saturday, 16th November 2013.

Organised by Des Berry, who went to great rounds in his efforts to get people Anthony Delahunty, Michael Monahan and Paul Foley. together, the reunion took place amidst the backdrop of the Autumn test encounter between Ireland and Argentina at the Aviva Stadium.

A few hardy souls commenced proceedings in O'Donoghues on Friday night, and were joined on Saturday by an excellent turnout, which included the likes of Philip O'Shea from Costa Rica, and Jamie Haughey from Marbella.

Making their return to the fold for the first time also were Kieran Dunne, Barra Faughnan and Dominic Reid. Steve Crehan and Jim McCormack.

The years fell away as the day took on a life of its own, and friendships and school anecdotes were recalled in fond fashion.

Rounding it off, some more brave souls were to be found in the early hours in The Sugar Club, where an 80's musical repertoire brought back some more school memories, and wet Sunday afternoons in the video room watching the likes of ZZ Top and Van Halen on MTV USA.

Michael O'Grady, Eddie Kiernan and Pat Somers.

Roscrea Review 32 Class of 1988 Reunion

The CCR Class of '88 held a reunion in the Shelbourne Hotel on the 28th of September 2013. Fergal Slevin, David Kruse, Paul McGrath and Eddy Russell. The General Manager of the Shelbourne, Stephen Hanley, was a member of the class and was on hand for the night, to welcome his old classmates.

A good turnout of pastmen were treated to an excellent meal, and amidst the historic walls of the Shelbourne, many of the histories of the class of '88 were recalled in what was a very enjoyable night. Simon Kelliher, Pat Somers and Colm Power and Eoin Rafferty. Dave Hernan.

Tom Duggan, John Hackett and Vinny O’Hara.

John Cleary, Pat Somers and Frank Harrington.

Gerry Grace, Shane Slattery and Niall Doogue.

33 ROSCREA Review CCR - 1946 We’re some of the Roscrea boys, We went to Rathdowney and made our name And taught St. Kieran’s to play the game; The following short piece And when O’Connell’s saw us, was sent to the Editor some they said we did deserve, months ago – it paints a Six medals a head and more picture of a CCR, indeed an brown bread for each of the Ireland most of us wouldn’t Roscrea boys! recognise!

While good food played its part In an age when 2000 healthy in winning that Cup, the young Irish people line up to dominant factor was the superb perform Riverdance, it is not easy training of Fr. Joseph, in my Tarrawarra 1955. to visualise the years of near opinion the most versatile sports starvation in Ireland, 1940 – master ever to grace CCR. As Jim 1946. All major foods were Power (CCR 1921-’26) he was a strictly rationed: flour, tea, sugar Fr. Hugh McAllister, Br. Gabriel member of the team that won the and butter could only be obtained Curtis (brother of Fr. Emmanuel Leinster Senior Gaelic Football in small amounts and with in CCR), myself and Fr. Robert Cup in 1924. In 1941 he trained coupons. Imported fruit like Sheeran. Hugh, Robert and I the Senior Rugby team that drew oranges and bananas were attended CCR. I was just a novice the Leinster Cup Final with unknown. when we set out for Australia. We Newbridge College, but lost the all travelled by P & O liners (what replay. In 1946 not only did he a wonderful experience!) Jumbo Then 1946 arrived and with it all train the Leinster Senior Hurling jets were very much a thing of the the hope of a new day dawning, Champions, but also the College future! and the promise of better times Athletics team which that year ahead. CCR was no exception to (as in many other years back this euphoria of hope, even if it then) won the College of Science A word to present day CCR did fare better than most other Cup for best team in Ireland. students and pastmen of more colleges in the lean years. To his recent times – we older pastmen eternal credit, the College are grateful to you for your aims The fearsome and dreaded TB President, Fr. Ailbe combined his and achievements, academic, which resulted from poor every effort with the monastery sporting etc. We thank you for wartime food cast a dark shadow bakery and slaughterhouse and keeping a great tradition alive. over Ireland. Sanatoria all round saw to it that no student ever the country were overflowing went to bed hungry. with thousands of patients. That Beannacht agus sláinte! shadow did not lift in 1946 – it Strict wartime rationing was still was only with the advent of Eoin (Max) Palmer in force to the end of 1946, and streptomycin in the late 1950s CCR 1946 – ’52. despite having a flourmill on the that TB was eradicated. When 26 property, flour was severely monks left Roscrea to found Southern Star Abbey, rationed. Bro. Patrick in the Tarrawarra Abbey in Australia, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand bakery also had trouble getting we had to have an X-Ray to show coke to fire the kiln. Whenever we were TB free! Editor’s note – the above bread was in short supply, we mentioned Fr. Joseph retired to a received a great fat ring of Of that 26, eight were CCR more sedate life in the German sausage for supper. No pastmen, only three of whom, Fr. Monastery. He was related to an wonder CCR won the Leinster Carthage O’Dea, Fr. Sean O’Toole aunt of mine by marriage, and Senior Hurling Cup in 1946! and myself are still living. The on several occasions I and others Vincent Cowen (Fr. Andrew) was photo shows our group of four were the beneficiaries of the a member of that team and wrote arriving in Tarrawara – from left, hospitality of the Guest House a song about it. The refrain went: thanks to him!

Roscrea Review 34 make it to the Class of 1970’s 40 year reunion in 2010 but was unable to attend, although he did - OBITUARIES - send his best wishes to his classmates. Barry Nash (CCR 2007 – ’12) John Gilmartin (CCR 1963-’64), We were all deeply shocked and A native of Borrisoleigh died saddened at the tragic death of suddenly on 5th May 2014. Jim Barry Nash in a car accident near Keating remembers him as one of Roscrea on Sunday 26th January his very first friends in his class in last. A native of Scariff, Co. Clare, CCR. He was a great hurler and Barry was a wonderful young man Jim remembers being very full of life, in his second year at disappointed that John didn’t UCD. He was a keen sportsman – return after his first year. like any young Clare man he loved

Jarlath Morris (CCR 1958-’61) Jarlath was born in Dun Laoghaire. His father was in the Ulster Bank, and Jarlath travelled John McNamara to CCR from both Tramore and (CCR 1962-’67) (Johnny Mac) Arva. After graduating with Died on 7th June 2014 after a honours in horticulture from UCD short illness. A native of Athlone, he joined Erin Foods (Irish Sugar he was a quantity surveyor by Co.) in Carlow and Thurles. profession, and had worked in In 1968 he came in contact with Fr London for many years. While he James McDyer in Glencolumcille, was in CCR he was an excellent Hurling, but his special love was and joined the ailing vegetable scrum half and played with Handball. He was a role model for canning co-op in Meenaneary in distinction on both Junior and young and old who imbibed the County Donegal. They were Senior Rugby teams. He was values of Cistercian College unable to source enough capped several times for Connacht throughout his everyday life. vegetables locally and Jarlath schools and subsequently played Union members join with the inspired the idea to change the for Bective Rangers. community of Cistercian College business to fish processing in His father Jackie (1960-’61) and and the wider community of Killybegs. Mount Saint Joseph Abbey extend brother Michael (2004-’05) were The Co-op expanded from both Union Presidents. His our heartfelt sympathies to the Nash family. mackerel and herring to crab and brother Jim (1973-’78) also the enterprise built up to 200 jobs attended CCR. George Geraghty at Earagail Eisc (Errigal Seafoods) We offer our heartfelt sympathy to (CCR 1952-’57) in Killybegs and Kilcar. Following his wife Andree, daughter Laura, Died on 4th February 2014. While cutbacks in the ‘90s, Jarlath semi mother Eleanor, brothers Michael in CCR he excelled in Athletics at retired, but became a consultant and Jim and sisters Ann, Deirdre the High Jump and Hurdles. In to Bord Iaschaigh Mhara. and Eleanor. 1962 he played on the In 2012 he was appointed John was buried in Teddington, Roscommon team that reached Secretary of the Irish Fish London on 19th June. A Memorial the All-Ireland Football Final Exporters Association. He died losing to Kerry on a score of 1-12 Mass was held in Rathgar Parish after a short illness on 29th May to 1-6. Church on 26th June with Dom 2013 and his funeral at Richard as celebrant. A large Dr. Aidan O’Carroll (Aodán Ó Meenaneary near his adopted number of CCR pastmen attended Cearbhaill) (CCR Class of Carrick was attended by hundreds as well as members of Bective 1970) of the workers with whom he was RFC, and the sailing community Died on 11th August 2013 after a held in very high regard. both in Dublin and Athlone. In long battle with cancer. A native of true CCR style, most of those Roscrea, he was Head of School, attending moved on from the Culinary Arts and Food church to nearby Comans for light Technology at Dublin Institute of (and not so light) refreshments Technology. He had hoped to and a lot of reminiscing.

35 ROSCREA Review Roscrea Pat O’Shea,Marcelline andDonncha CodyattherecentSEDinnerinKilkenny. When speakingafter the Dinnershepolitely “complained” thatwhile BrendanFeehanhadalready beenpresentedwith a Union tie(attherecentBusinessLunch), shehadbeencomingtoUnion functionsforyearsandwas Contact Katherine Donovan 0505 31203 13th -14th September ABBOT'S CUP GOLF AND UNION WEEKEND Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Contact Jim Keating 086 817 7597 or Ronan Egan 087 989 4899 MIDLANDS GOLF OUTING Contact Ann McIntyre, 087 2688052 HURLING SUPPORT GROUP GOLF Email:[email protected] Email:[email protected] Contact Vincent Coyne, 086 343 7196 or Pat Hanrattty 087 273 1904 Edmondstown Golf Club - Friday 20th June MATT HYLAND / NOEL WINDLE GOLF UNION AGM, SOUTH WEST BRANCH DINNER; SOUTH EAST BRANCH DINNER; Union Calendar 2014-’15 never offeredone.With that,PatO’Sheatooktheunprecedented stepoftakinghistieoffand College Boardroom, Sun. 25th May, 12 noon. Review - Friday 29th August, New Forest G.C. Tyrellspass Ormonde Hotel, Kilkenny 3rd Sat. May 8 p.m. Sunday’s Well Tennis Club, Mardyke, Cork - Friday 4th July

symbolically presentingittoher! 36 For other events, check the Union website Email: [email protected] Contact Fergal Keane 00 44 7973412323 LONDON BRANCH DINNER 2015 Contact Niall Rafferty Email: [email protected] NORTH AMERICAN DINNER Email:[email protected] Contact Vincent Coyne, 086 343 7196 or Dave Hernan 087 410 5446 DUBLIN DINNER - or Brian Flynn Email: [email protected] Contact Gerry Breen Email: [email protected] 13th - 14th September, CLASS OF 1949-’54 REUNION Contact Bernard McHale Email: [email protected] CLASS OF 1979-’84 REUNION Contact Des Cox 01-428 2638, 086-8062102 Email: [email protected] 12th - 14th September CLASS OF 1989-’94 REUNION for up to date details. Saturday 18tH October, Morrison Hotel, Dublin 1 - Friday 21st November (tbc) - Radisson Hotel, Galway, 18th October - County Arms, Birr and Roscrea, - Abbey Guest House (tba) www.ccrunion.org

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