Archbishop Tutu delights Ballymun schoolchildren

The spirits of hundreds of schoolchildren were lifted today as Archbishop Desmond Tutu visited one of the country's biggest regeneration projects.

The human rights activist told youngsters their disadvantaged town of Ballymun in north Dublin had transformed like a butterfly.

President Mary McAleese also paid tribute to the Archbishop whom she described as a great champion of all that is humanly decent.

She said she hoped he found himself at home with the people of Ballymun, who have had many mountains to climb to create a new vision and new future for themselves and their children.

"They know a thing or two about struggling against difficult odds," Ms McAleese told a civic reception in the town.

"They are living proof of what happens when people decide to make change happen, how the good leadership of one can create a mass movement of many, a community of effort working together to create a community of opportunity."

Earlier at St Joseph's National School where he opened a community music room, Archbishop Tutu gave a high five to scores of excited youngsters, hugged grannies and blessed babies.

Although not expected to give a speech, he took to his feet after 50 pupils from local schools gave an uplifting musical performance.

With his larger than life personality he commended the 'gorgeous creatures' for their fabulous music.

"Just look at the thing that's happened here," said the Archbishop of Cape Town.

"I guess a few years ago this was a very run down part of the world.

"You know a caterpillar. But then the caterpillar changed in to a beautiful butterfly. You all are beautiful butterflies, and all those people who help with regeneration.

"I'm so happy to be here and listen to such wonderful music."

He also opened a five-a-side indoor soccer pitch, the BRL Umbro Sports Arena, at Trinity Comprehensive School.

His visit to the two schemes - part of Ballymun Regeneration Ltd - will mark the beginning of a new twinning programme between schoolchildren in South Africa and Ballymun.

The Music Room is a dedicated practice space for the Ballymun Music Programme, which includes 700 children from eight primary and national schools and will be open to community groups and local societies.

Some past members have since won scholarships to study music at third level.

Sixty-year-old Bridie Bates was hugged by Archbishop Tutu on the way in to the school and had her 14-month-old grandson Luke blessed as he left.

"It was a lovely extraordinary moment," said Mrs Bates.

"It was very special."