Three of the four Laois schools identified as possibly requiring “urgent structural assessments” following the discovery of “significant structural issues” at a Dublin secondary school need extensive works before they can reopen on Monday.
The Department of Education has carried out inspections of 30 schools built in the past ten years.
According to RTE News, the schools in question were all built by Tyrone-based construction company Western Building Systems.
Four Laois schools were inspected. Portlaoise Educate Together, Gaelscoil Portlaoise and Maryborough NS – which are all on the same site – and Portarlington Convent NS.
Maryborough NS is the only one of five buildings constructed by Western Building Systems in the midlands which is deemed safe to reopen.
Portarlington Convent National School, Gaelscoil Portlaoise and Portlaoise Educate Together National School will need fencing and protective decking before they can open their doors again.
Gaelscoil Phortlaoise and Portlaoise Educate Together NS must get protection from potential falling structures, at every external doorway and fire exit, and around the perimeter of the building.
It is envisaged though that all three Laois schools will be able to reopen on Monday.
