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REMARKS BY PRESIDENT McALEESE AT THE UNVEILING OF TWO PLAQUES TO WILLIAM HAGUE BUTLERSBRIDGE

REMARKS BY PRESIDENT McALEESE AT THE UNVEILING OF TWO PLAQUES TO WILLIAM HAGUE BUTLERSBRIDGE, CO. CAVAN 22ND MARCH 1999

I am delighted to have this opportunity to unveil these two plaques in commemoration of the centenary of the death of the architect William Hague.

I would particularly like to thank Oonagh Hague, a descendant of William’s, for inviting me here today.

William Hague’s legacy is still very much with us, in the dozens of important churches, schools, town halls and other public buildings around the country which he designed.

It is appropriate, however, that the people of his birthplace, here in Butlersbridge, should honour him today. As you are aware, William Hague designed both Saint Aidan’s Catholic Church here in Butlersbridge and Saint John’s Church of Ireland in nearby Cloverhill. These plaques, which will be erected on each Church, will provide a lasting testament to his unique architectural vision. At a time when this island most needs causes for celebration around which people of all sides can gather, I am delighted to have this opportunity to join you here today in paying tribute to one of the area’s most famous sons.

I would like to warmly congratulate Oonagh Hague and all the pupils of fifth class in Butlersbridge Central National School for their outstanding work in researching this project, with the assistance of the National Library, Cavan Library, and the people of Butlersbridge and Cloverhill. I also wish to commend Michael Mulvey and all those involved in the Butlersbridge Community Association for their vital support for this commemoration.

It is with great pleasure that I now unveil these two plaques.