Teaching dynasty comes to an end as Eugene retires

A well-known Cavan teaching dynasty came to an end recently following the retirement of Eugene Reilly when he stepped down as deputy principal of Farnham National School in Cavan town. Eugene now joins his brothers JJ, Paddy and Michael (Haulie) out on pasture as they all stepped down two years ago from their teaching posts. To mark Eugene's retirement a special Mass, celebrated by Fr John Gilhooley, chairperson of the Board of Management, was held in Farnham School at the end of the school term. Eugene taught in the school from 1976 to 2011 having begun his teaching career in St. Kevin's boys's school, Finglas, Dublin. It is the end of an era for the Reillys on the teaching front. Between them they have amassed almost 150 years in the teaching profession. Eugene grew up in Ashe Street, Cavan town and is married to Clare Browne-Reilly, from Roscommon, who has also been involved in education in Cavan, having taught for 33 years in Breifne College as a Home Economics teacher. Their sons, Dominic and Eamonn, are past pupils of Farnham National School and have brought great joy to their parents. Eugene attended St Patrick's College of Education, Drumcondra, Dublin, to train as a primary school teacher. He was one of eight students from St Patrick's College, Cavan, to be called to teacher training that year. His teaching career began in St Kevin's Boys' school, Finglas, Dublin in 1973. After three years there he returned home to Cavan and arrived at Farnham National School on July 1st, 1976, which was then a three teacher school under the principalship of Mrs Angela O'Connor. In 1996 it was time for a move to the new school in Drumelis. To mark this important occasion, Mr Reilly and his school friend, Mr PJ Dunne co-authored a book, 'Farnham School and its Community'. This book traces the history of Farnham School from 1801 - 1996, and continues to be a valuable teaching resource. With the large increase in enrolment, a new extension was officially opened by Most Rev Dr Leo O'Reilly on October 16, 2009. Mr Reilly was instrumental in compiling a commemorative booklet on this occasion also. Over many years, Mr Reilly's love of football has permeated throughout the school community and he has encouraged a love of the game in many hundreds of pupils, including both his sons, Dominic and Eamonn. Many of these footballers have represented Cavan Gaels GFC and other clubs throughout the county. Of particular pride are those who have played at county level. During the last 35 years, Master Reilly has seen many changes, beginning in a three teacher prefab and now finishing in a twelve teacher modern school. New teachers have always appreciated his warm welcome and his kind words of encouragement. Both staff and pupils alike have appreciated Master Reilly's sense of humour and his gentle manner. As deputy principal, he has carried out his duties in an exemplary manner and will be greatly missed by pupils, staff and the wider school community. Master Eugene Reilly was wished all the very best for a happy, healthy retirement from many people including Bernard Donohoe, principal, Mrs Eithne Martin, and Mr Ray Dunne, Board of Management. The staff of the school made a presentation to Mr Reilly.