Cillian Murphy's win at Oscars shows ‘from local beginnings Irish talent can succeed’

CILLIAN MURPHY’S Oscar win is proof that people can achieve their dreams when they put their mind to it, the principal of the actor’s former primary school has said.

Principal of St Anthony’s Boys National School Séan Lyons said that the former pupil’s “inspirational” Oscar win sends an important message to all young people.

“No matter what part of life you’re in, whether you’re in the creative sector like Cillian or whether it’s in music, sport, or your own small personal achievements, with hard work it’s possible to get there — whether you’re from Cork, Dublin, London, America — it does not matter.

“If you have a goal and the determination and if you can take the knocks and get up and go again and have a drive and the focus, you can achieve.”

Fianna Fáil councillor for the Cork City South-East ward Mary Rose Desmond said she does not doubt that Mr Murphy’s success will act as a catalyst for many to pursue their dreams and a future career in the arts.

“I have known Cillian from childhood and I remember the first time I saw him perform was in a college production of Little Shop of Horrors in the Cork Opera House many years ago. 

"His success goes to show from local beginnings that Irish talent can succeed and shine bright on any stage and that the opportunities for the next generation of artists are boundless.”

CEO of Opera House Eibhlín Gleeson highlighted the importance of giving young people the opportunity to flourish in the arts.

“It’s important to note that Cillian had opportunities when he was a young man to be in plays and to explore this part of his personality and his talent and it’s important that we maintain these opportunities for all young people and they continue to be supported up along their career so that they can have these amazing opportunities and they can go out there and win Oscars for Ireland,” she said.

Independent councillor for Cork North-East ward Kenneth O’Flynn described his win as “a beacon of inspiration for aspiring young individuals with big dreams in Cork and beyond” and said he is opening doors of possibility for the next generation of artists and creatives in Cork.

“His win ignites a fire within young hearts, encouraging them to chase their ambitions fearlessly and reminding them of the incredible heights they can reach with perseverance and talent,” said Mr O’Flynn.