National school is a community treasure

IN the not-too-distant past society was principally defined by the practices of sharing, social interaction and visitation.

The meitheal, at its many and varied levels, was central to the lives of the people. Births, marriages and deaths had a relevance not just for the individual family but in a very real sense for the entire district.

The togetherness of the people and their sense of identity with place resulted to a great degree from being nurtured and educated in their local national school. It was in such a stern setting that they imbibed local history, grasped intricate lineage and aspired to a shared future.

During the middle part of the last century the bureaucrats decreed that big was best.

They eliminated small railway lines, locked up rural garda stations and decreed an end to small rural schools.

Thankfully, in the case of schools, parents fought for their birthright and often won the future. Many schools were saved and now they prosper and expand. The happy result is that such places remain a community and a people retain their rich heritage and united optimism.

Few, if any, schools have been so richly endowed in their setting by history and vibrant folklore as Shrone, Rathmore, Co Kerry (Irish Examiner, November 7).

It sits in the shadow of the famed Paps of Anú and looks out at Cathair Crobh Dearg (The City) in Gortnagown.

Teachers have faithfully inculcated the myths and magic of the hallowed place and thus the young of each era have grown in love and understanding of their history and tradition.

Shrone school should be allowed continue to enrich its community and remain a repository to inspire future generations to treasure their heritage.

Cllr Michael Gleeson

South Kerry Independent

Alliance

Clasheen

Killarney

Co Kerry