Tallaght Community School released the below statement in recent days on the passing of Past School Principal Darragh O’Reilly.
“It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Darragh O Reilly. RIP. Darragh joined Tallaght Community School as Vice Principal in 1978, was appointed Principal in 1989, a post he held until his retirement in 1994.
Darragh was one of a kind. He was a warm, caring and dedicated man who was an inspiration to many. He knew the name of each and every student in the school. He knew their families and their extended families, he forged strong links with the community. He instilled in students a pride in being from Tallaght, which at the time, was the fastest- growing and most vibrant part of Dublin.
Darragh was a champion of students. At a time when resources were limited, he provided pastoral supports and used his significant counselling skills to great effect. He was generous with his time and his door was always open to students.
He was hugely supportive of the staff in TCS and encouraged new teachers, always offering sound advice. He was a sports enthusiast, promoting involvement of all girls and boys. He was the one shouting loudest from the sidelines! A proud Meath man, he loved his football. Although retired for many years, fond memories of Darragh are often retold in Tallaght Community School.
The staff and students of TCS extend their sympathies to his wife Josie and his family.
Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam uasal. Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís”.
