Seachtain na Gaeilge proved to be a lively affair in St. Colman's College, Fermoy this year, the highlight, undoubtedly, being a performance in the college by Cork musician and songwriter, John Spillane.

John had an audience of appreciative students and staff when he performed in the school assembly hall. An enthusiastic and energetic performance had everyone singing along at one stage or another, students and teachers alike. John has revived popular Irish songs such as 'Óró sé do beatha abhaile' and 'Beidh Aonach Amárach' with his best selling album 'Irish songs we learned at school' and he performed these and many more on the day. He also performed some of his own material, such as 'Dunnes Stores Girl'.

His great sense of humour and enthusiasm for the Irish language created a lively and fun atmosphere. Two fifth year students, Sean Delaney and Gregory O'Sullivan, had the distinction of being chosen to play and sing with John on stage. Bhí lá iontach ag gach duine.

INTERACTING 'AS GAEILGE'

As well as the concert, there was a variety of activities organised for students in St. Colman's to celebrate Seachtain na Gaeilge. Second years enjoyed a traditional 'Bricfeasta Gaelach' and 'comhrá' as Gaeilge during their meal and they also took part in an in-house debate, arguing the motion 'Tá ceol agust ceoltóiri sa lá atá inniu ann thar barr ar fad.'

First year students attended a 'Tráth na gCeist' hosted by a number of TY students, while fifth and sixth classes had a question and answer session with no less than Nuala ní Dhomhnaill, the renowned poet and fluent Irish speaker. Leaving Certificate students at the school are currently studying one of her poems - 'Mo Ghrá-sa (idir lúibiní) and the audience with her gave them valuable insight into her life and writing.

With its proud sporting tradition it's not surprising that the college added a sporting event to its clár for Seachtain na Gaeilge. Cork senior hurling stars William Egan and Conor Lehane took time out of their own busy academic and sporting schedules to host a training session and poc fada with St. Colman's under 14 hurling panel. William and Conor shared their skills and experience with over 40 students.

Throughout the fortnight, students and staff interacted through Irish.

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