St Patrick's PS

Derrygonnelly is located 10 miles from the nearest big town
of Enniskillen. It lies sleepily at the foot of the Knockmore
Mountain and is the main village in the parish of Botha. There
are approximately 3000 residents in the village and
surrounding areas. The population consists mainly of
Catholic, Church of Ireland and Methodist members with
Catholics making up 60% of the total. There are three primary
schools catering for both communities with a total
attendance of 272. Post-primary schooling is catered for in
Enniskillen.
The broad Lower Lough Erne forms its northern boundary
as it flows westwards to the sea while the River Sillies floes
eastwards in the opposite direction through its centre. The
Erne's scenic shoreline contrasts with the dominating Bars
of Boho and Knockmore to the southwest.
The parish name Botha derives from the Gaelic, meaning a
mud hut used by herdsmen and today cattle and sheep
grazing are still a primary occupation among the
parishioners. The parish proudly cherishes its rich heritage
from the past. Tully and Monea castles are two well
preserved plantation castles in the area from the 17th
century.