PAX ET SPES

A Motto To Inspire

The next time you put on the school jumper, first take a good look at the crest. You # will see the Latin motto 'Pax et Spes ('Peace and Hope') emblazoned across its base. This motto, and the school ethos, has inspired many St. Aidan's students since the school was founded in 1964.

Those students fortunate enough to represent the school in competition have always been immensely proud to wear the crest and respect its tradition. This was particularly true of the senior athletics team that achieved All Ireland glory in the Cross Country Championships in March 2008. The team members looked resplendent in their new singlets and track suits as they warmed-up for the big race. Victory allowed them to realise their long held hopes and dreams and we will cherish the memory forever.

The Taoiseach Mr. Bertie Ahern announced his resignation from office on Wednesday last 2nd April. He was a distinguished pupil of St. Aidan's and also represented the school in athletics. The motto of 'Peace and Hope* was close to his heart during his years as a leading political figure of this nation. Bertie was proud of his roots and delighted in bringing eminent dignitaries to this area and to his former school. We have fond memories of his many visits to St. Aidan's and especially when he brought Tony Blair with him in November 1998, just 6 months after the signing of the Good Friday agreement.

Bertie had charisma and ability to work with people to achieve common ends. This is how he honed his skills as a negotiator. Following the unemployment, emigration and general gloom of the late 1980' and early 1990's he brought hope through social partnership. This ended industrial strife and improved the economy for the betterment of all sections of the community.

He was a democrat and worked with other parties to frame coalition governments to achieve power even when this was not necessary, as in the case of the present government.

Bertie's greatest achievement was as a peacemaker. He built effective relationships with Tony Blair and Bill Clinton and others. Together they helped fashion the Good Friday Agreement 1998 and they stuck with it until the 'Chuckle Brothers', i.e. lan Paisley and Martin McGuinness, took over in late 2007. Hope has returned to Northern Ireland and the whole country. Just think of the countless people preserved from death and injury through Bertie's efforts. The motto 'PEACE AND HOPE' is a worthwhile aspiration to help you through life. It can be seen in the spirit of cooperation found in the school community-parents, teachers, students, management and trustees working together.

It has been an inspiration to Bertie Ahern in his political career. Let it be and inspiration for you in your own life and in your interaction with others; the world will be a better place for all its inhabitants.

Mr. T. P. Ward
Deputy Principal.