Oisín McGrath’s funeral Mass told of boy’s life cut short

A schoolboy who died following a playground incident had a bright future, a priest told mourners at his funeral.

Oisín McGrath (13) was a pupil at St Michael's College in Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh in Northern Ireland, and was hurt while playing football during his lunch break almost a week ago. His organs were donated to save five lives after he died in hospital on Thursday.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested and later bailed pending further police inquiries into what happened.

Fr Seamus Quinn said that Oisín had “given life” to five people.

He said he had spoken to the teenager’s mother after his life support had been switched off.

Fr Quinn said: “My God, it must have been an excruciating decision as well. And I know it won’t take away their pain, but my goodness, what meaning to have. That somebody was able to give life to five other people.”

School friends formed a guard of honour as the remains were carried into St Patrick’s Catholic Church in the rural western fringe of the county on Sunday.

Oisín’s last primary school report noted: “I have no doubt he has a very bright future ahead of him.”

Fr Séamus Quinn read out the poignant note during Requiem Mass at Holywell near Belcoo.

Guard of honour

He said Oisín had just decided to become a professional sportsman, having played Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) football for his school and village club while also competing in cross-country running and soccer.

Hundreds of classmates lined the route and the boy’s coffin was carried into the church with a GAA jersey on top.

His mother Sharon, father Nigel and younger sisters Ciana and Cairen led mourners. Those who could not get into the packed church watched on a large screen outside.

Fellow pupils of the Year 9 student wore GAA jerseys draped over school uniforms.

Two floral wreaths depicted a football and GAA jersey in tribute to the promising young sportsman’s talent.

The school choir sang “Together, together, the children of God” as he was brought into the church.

The teenager played Gaelic football in Belcoo. His mother is secretary for the local club.

Fr Quinn said: “Oisín was also gifted with a lovely personality, a great sense of humour, was a natural communicator and always willing to help others.

“Oisín was a natural, unaffected young lad. He was quiet and easy to be with, with the kind of smile that drew the best out of you, whether you were young or old. While Oisin was a leader, he was not at all an egotist.”

Oisín was buried in the adjoining cemetery.

PA