Gaelscoil na Dúglaise, was established in September 1985 as a result of a campaign launched by a group of parents and others interested in providing Irish medium education in Douglas. The school was initially named in honour of An tAthair Tadhg Ó Murchú a Cork priest who did much during his life to nurture the Irish language and culture. He taught Irish for many years in Farranferris. He was based in Carrignavar for many years. An t-Athair Tadhg was renowned in the West Kerry Gaeltacht as he established Brú na Gráige. Generations of young people benefitted from these trips to an Ghaeltacht. 

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The school was located in rented rooms at Coláiste Mhuire, Douglas, residence of the Presentation Brothers. This is now Reeveswood. All in Gaelscoil na Dúglaise are much obliged to the Brothers for their support, friendship and co-operation during our years there. The first Principal, Máire Uí Chonghaile was appointed in 1985. The school opened with 20 pupils.  

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The first Chairperson of Gaelscoil na Dúglaise was Seamus Ó Riain, followed by Derek Ó’ Nuallain.  Pádraig Mac Fhlannchadha took up the helm as principal in 2000. He was succeeded by the current principal Niamh Ní Mhaoláin in 2002. 

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As a result of much work and co-operation between management, teachers and parents over the years we finally settled into our new school building which is situated off the South Link and the South Douglas Road. It was officially opened by Minister Michael Martin in 1996.

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It was evident quite quickly that additional accommodation was needed to meet the demand for Irish medium education in the Douglas area. A further 8 classrooms opened in 2004. Currently the school is a twenty-seven-teacher school with nine special needs assistants and over 450 pupils. A further extension was sanctioned in 2022 and we look forward to writing the next chapter.  

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