News
“It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster but it’s the right decision”

HAPPY: Colm Ó Súilleabháin Principal of St Oliver's NS hugs Ukrainian mother Hannah Bieliaieva when the decision to move women and children to Mayo was reversed. Photo: Michelle Crean
By Michelle Crean
Principal of St Oliver's NS, Colm Ó Súilleabháin, said his first reaction to the news that the Ukrainians could stay was "overall relief".
"It was the right decision," he told the Killarney Advertiser.
"It came probably a little bit too late. I'd have been happier if this had been resolved a little bit earlier in the week, it would have avoided undue stress.Iit went down to the wire."
He added that he always felt there would be a positive outcome.
"I was getting nervous this morning [Wednesday], but you can see the relief on everyone's face here," he said.
"Staff in the school were very distraught this morning [Wednesday], very upset, men and women. It's been a bit of a rollercoaster but it's the right decision and we're delighted for everyone involved. We're thrilled."