The Haven Adult Education Centre welcomed people for ‘A Trip Down Basin Lane’, as part of The Gathering in Basin Lane, Dublin 8 on 14th March 2013. Sr. Rita Wynne R.S.C., coordinator of The Haven, was involved in organising this event with the Links Committee, which is made of up of representatives from CBS James’s Street, Scoil San Séamus and Mater Dei Primary School. The Committee decided that they would hold a Gathering Event to celebrate the community spirit and history of Basin Lane, and it was also part of a community development initiative.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Naoise Ó Muirí, officially opened the celebrations. Speaking at the event, the Lord Mayor said: “There is a long history of education in Basin Lane. This tradition of education is due to the commitment of the teaching staff and local community who have worked together for nearly two centuries on behalf of the children and young people of Dublin 8.”

The Committee decided that they would hold a Gathering Event to celebrate the community spirit and history.

Also in attendance was former Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave, whose father, William T. Cosgrave, attended CBS James’s Street. Commenting today, Mr. Cosgrave said: “The city is a very different place now, but it is good to know that education is still important, progressive and strongly celebrated in the community.”

Past pupils, past teachers and staff, and past residents were invited to return to Basin Lane for the event. Student’s from The Haven exhibited their work, and refreshments were provided. Entertainment took place in all three schools, including a ceilí in Mater Dei Primary School. There was also a display of historical photographs of Basin Lane.