Cork senior footballer Ruairí Deane has been appointed as the new principal of Scoil Phobail Bhéara.
The 34-year-old Bantry native succeeds Pauline Hurley as the new principal of the Castletownbere secondary school.
Scoil Phobail Bhéara provides second level education for students in the Beara Peninsula.
The school encourages and challenges all students to reach their full potential.
The co-educational school is an integral part of the local community.
In addition to providing the best possible education for the students and preparing them for later life, the school serves as a resource for and enriches the local community.
Scoil Phobail Bhéara opened in 1980 following an amalgamation between Meán Scoil Naomh lósaf, run by the Mercy Sisters, and Castletownbere Vocational School, run by Cork VEC (now Cork Education and Training Board).
The school has continued to grow, develop and improve over past years.
Independent councillor Finbarr Harrington who is on the board of management paid tribute to the outgoing principal Pauline Hurley. “At our first management meeting of the new school term, we took the opportunity to say farewell to Pauline Hurley as she retires as principal of Scoil Phobail Bhéara. We would like to sincerely thank Pauline for her years of dedication, kindness and hard work, both as a teacher and as principal.”
Cllr Harrington said Ms Hurley will be fondly remembered by all in the local community for her huge contribution to education “She has given so much to the school and to the Beara community. Her contribution will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
“We wish Pauline a long, happy and healthy retirement and every success and happiness in whatever the future holds. She has certainly earned the chance to enjoy this next chapter,” he added.
The new school principal Ruairí Deane has enjoyed a very successful football career with Bantry Blues, Carbery and Cork.
The tall athletic footballer who generally plays at wing forward, is renowned for his high fielding and direct running style.
Deane memorably captained the Cork junior footballers to All-Ireland glory in 2013.
The Bantry Blues stalwart has made over 100 appearances for the Cork senior footballers since he joined the panel in 2014.
Cllr Harrington wished the new principal well in his new role. “I want to wish Ruairí every success as he takes on the role of principal. We look forward to working with Ruairí and supporting him as he begins this exciting new chapter. Best wishes to you both. Pauline, enjoy your retirement, and Ruairí, best of luck in your new role.”