At its Annual Dinner this year, the Blackrock College Union formally recognised Restore Together — an independent, survivor-led initiative founded by past pupils to support victims of clerical sexual abuse and to advocate for truth, accountability, and healing across the entire Spiritan (Holy Ghost) network of schools in Ireland.

The President’s Award, presented at the gift of the Union President, honours a past pupil or member of the Blackrock College community who has made a significant contribution to Blackrock College and/or wider society.

This year, Union President Karl O’Neill selected Restore Together in recognition of their courage, advocacy, and commitment to supporting survivors of abuse.

Founded in Spring 2021 by classmates primarily from the Class of 1979, Restore Together began as an effort to raise awareness of clerical abuse within Spiritan schools. The group — made up of survivors, non-survivors, and supporters — has since expanded to include representatives from all Spiritan schools, working to support all past pupils affected.

A pivotal moment in their journey came with their November 2022 press conference, organised by founding members including Philip Feddis and Corrie McMahon, both of whom attended the dinner.

Today, under the chairmanship of Eoin MacNeill, Restore Together continues its vital work, collaborating closely with the Union and Blackrock College to reach out to those who still need support.

Speaking on the night, Eoin MacNeill, Chairman of Restore Together,  said: "The welcome, encouragement and friendship shown by the Union and by past pupils have been profound. Working together to reach out to those who still need support is ongoing and vital. We want every victim and survivor to know they have a special place in the Blackrock College community. For many, the experience of abuse left them feeling abandoned — and it’s important that they now feel seen, valued, and supported.

“We want to emphasise that everyone is welcome to reach out — there is no judgement, only support. We’re grateful for the support shown by the Union. While we were founded by past pupils of Blackrock, we now include representatives from all Spiritan schools and work to represent all past pupils affected by abuse. For many, schools were where the harm began — but through initiatives like this, healing can begin too. Recognition matters deeply to survivors."

Union President Karl O’Neill added: "We recognise and thank Restore Together, including our brave classmates, for standing up and increasing awareness of this significant societal issue. We applaud their continued work in supporting victims and survivors. Their example reflects the very best of our Union’s spirit and values."

Founded in 1898, the Blackrock College Union is one of the oldest past pupil unions in Ireland and remains committed to standing in solidarity with survivors and supporting all efforts toward healing and reconciliation.