The Mulroy College school community has united in shock and sadness following the news that two students and two mothers of students at the school were victims of the Creeslough explosion.
Teenagers James Monaghan and Leona Harper, and mothers of students Catherine O Donnell and Martina Martin lost their lives in the tragic accident on Friday afternoon.
There were also a number of students who incurred injuries at the scene.
The students, staff, Board of Management and parents of Mulroy College have sent their deepest sympathies to families who have tragically lost a loved one.
“We also hope that all those injured will make a full recovery,” a spokesperson for Donegal ETB said.
Ms Fiona Temple, School Principal of Mulroy College said, “We as a school community are devastated on hearing of the tragedy and the fatal outcome for our two beautiful students and our cherished parents. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families and the Creeslough community at this time.
“We are numbed by this overwhelming sadness and will work together to support all members of our school community in the coming days, weeks and months ahead.
“Our priority, as a school management and staff, is the wellbeing and welfare of the students and their families at this tragic time. We extend our best wishes to all those who suffered injuries including some of our students.”
Principal, Fiona Temple. Photo -Clive Wasson
As news reached the College of the tragic accident, the Critical Incident Plan of Mulroy College was enacted. The Student Support Team, the Critical Incident Team and the management and staff of Mulroy College are supporting students, parents and staff at this very difficult time.
Psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service and Donegal ETB have offered advice and guidance to ensure the wellbeing of students and families was a priority.
Dr Martin Gormley, Director of Schools with Donegal ETB stated: “I wish to compliment the emergency and health services, the school management and staff and the educational psychologists on their response to this critical incident. We extend our sympathies to all the families and we now wish all those injured a speedy recovery following the accident. This is a tragedy that is difficult to put words on.”
Mulroy College will be open on Sunday 9 October from 3.00-4.00pm to enable students, parents and staff to visit and support one another. The school will open as normal on Monday and numerous supports will be available to support students, staff and parents.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamnacha dílse.
