A ‘rock solid’ case for a new school has been made to Minister for Education Norma Foley following a meeting with officials from Scoil Mhuire in Abbeyleix yesterday.
The meeting, organised by Laois TD Sean Fleming, was an opportunity for the school to raise the major structural problems with the school building.
And that, according to Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley, is exactly what they did.
He said: “A rock solid case was made yesterday for a new school in Abbeyleix at a meeting with Minister Norma Foley.
“The Minister was left in no doubt of the terrible condition that Scoil Mhuire is in.
“The school staff, pupils and school management outlined in great detail the terrible condition of the building.
“I told the Minister of one proposal that was put to me last year and that was to have the building retrofitted in 2024 or a date after that.
“This is not an option as the school can’t wait that long and it is my firm belief that a full technical assessment would show that Scoil Mhuire needs to be demolished.
“I explained to Minister Foley that the school is on an 8.5acre site which means that a new 16 classroom building can be constructed at the rear of the existing school without disturbing the functioning of the school during construction phase.”
While that is ongoing, Deputy Stanley says that a number of maintenance works are required.
He said: “In the meantime, the school needs emergency repairs to the roof, the sewerage system and the electrics so as to tide them over until new accommodation is provided.
“I welcome the commitment Minister Foley gave to have a full Engineers report and technical assessment as soon as possible.”
While Minister Fleming said: “I was very pleased to have arranged this meeting.
“Those representing the school outlined all the difficulties in the school including the leaking roof, the unsatisfactory sewerage, the lack of insulation, the outdated electrical work all which need to be dealt with.
“Minister Foley was especially taken with the views expressed on behalf of the children who attend the school.
“The Minister has agreed that there will be a full audit carried out in relation to the structure of the building to decide the best option, whether to go for a new building or a complete retrofit, refurbishment of the existing building.
“I will keep in close contact with the school and her Department to ensure this next step happens as soon as possible so there can be a clear decision on the best option.
“Overall it was a positive meeting and I want to thank all involved in the school for their work to date in highlighting this situation. Also I acknowledge all the other elected representatives in the area who were present at the meeting.”
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