Students of O’Connell Secondary School Shine at NEIC 2026 Progress Report Launch
We were immensely proud to see our students play such a central and professional role at the launch of the North East Inner City Initiative 2025 Progress Report, which took place on 23rd February 2026 in St. Agatha’s Hall, Dunne Street, Dublin 1.
The event was officially launched by An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin T.D., who joined the NEIC Programme Implementation Board to mark the publication of its ninth Progress Report. Since 2016, over €60.7 million has been committed by Government to support the Initiative’s work in improving the lives of residents and strengthening communities across Dublin’s North East Inner City.
The report outlines the extensive and collaborative efforts undertaken in 2025, involving key stakeholders such as An Garda Síochána, the Local Community Safety Partnership, Government Departments, State Agencies, local businesses and community representatives. The Initiative continues to demonstrate what can be achieved when agencies and communities work together with a shared vision.
Student Leadership and Professionalism
Our students were entrusted with significant responsibilities on the day, including welcoming guests and serving as MCs for the event. They carried out their roles with confidence, composure and genuine warmth. Their delivery was articulate and engaging, reflecting not only their individual talents but also the values of respect, preparation and leadership that we strive to nurture in our school community.
An Taoiseach himself remarked on how powerful it was to hear first-hand accounts from the students of O’Connell Secondary School, acknowledging the positive impact of NEIC-driven projects on their educational journeys and future aspirations.
As Principal, I could not have been prouder. The students conducted themselves with a level of professionalism that would rival seasoned presenters. They demonstrated that young people from our community are not only beneficiaries of positive change, they are active contributors to it.
A Transformative Initiative
The NEIC Initiative has been transformative for our students. Through strategic partnerships, targeted supports and meaningful engagement, pathways to further and higher education have been strengthened. Opportunities have expanded. Confidence has grown.
Events like this are powerful reminders that investment in community and education delivers real, tangible outcomes. Our students stood as living proof of that progress.
We extend our sincere thanks to the NEIC Programme Implementation Board for their continued commitment to the area, and for giving our students the opportunity to contribute to such an important occasion.
The future of the North East Inner City is bright, and after witnessing our students on that stage, we are more confident than ever in the leaders it is shaping.
Principal, Mr. Liam Newell