Visit By President Mary McAleese and Dr Martin McAleese

Friday 15 April 2011

The RDCA and St. Mary's Primary School were delighted to welcome President Mary McAleese and her husband Dr Martin McAleese to Rathlin yesterday.

The sun shone brilliantly as the President arrived, and visited the seven schoolchildren and the staff of St. Mary's Primary School. Then, the McAleeses walked next door to the Parochial Hall where a large and representative group of members of the island community had gathered to meet the President and Dr McAleese, and to hear her speak.

President McAleese spoke most warmly and eloquently about her visit, and about her recognition of the benefits - and struggles - associated with island life. She spoke of their intention, once she stands down from office in November of visiting Rathlin again, as they plan to visit and walk all of Ireland's islands. She then spent time chatting to island residents, and was presented with a flower arrangement by head girl of St. Mary's Orlagh Cecil. A large group also gathered at the harbour to wave farewell to President McAleese and Dr McAleese. Many thanks must go to all who worked hard in the background to make the visit happen, and for it to run so smoothly on the day.