Ballydesmond NS bade a fond farewell to Gerard Lucey who has been principal of our school for the past 16 years. Colleagues, pupils and parents attended Mass in St. Patrick's Church and later assembled at the local community centre to pay tribute to Gerard and thank him for his wonderful commitment and service to the school during his tenure. 

​

Addressing the gathering, Gerard said that Ballydesmond people possess a wonderful community spirit and that he would miss everything about the school:

​

"Our school is a vibrant centre of learning, possessing a wonderful history of professionalism. Enrolment has grown steadily and there will be at least 96 children here for the next school year, I am fully confident that our school is destined for a bright future and sincerely wish all associated with it every success".