Investment in new school for Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré a necessity – Perry

Fine Gael TD for Sligo Leitrim, John Perry says investment in a new permanent building for Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré is a necessity and confirmation that preferred sites have now been identified is good news for parents and children in Sligo.

“Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré, which is currently located within the grounds of St. Mary’s G.A.A. club in Ballydoogan, has 240 pupils enrolled. The school will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year and as it continues to grow it is vital that this school community is given the same rights as every other. It is clear to everyone that a new permanent building is needed.

“I have visited this school in the past with former Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn and I have seen at first hand on many occasions the conditions that children endure every day. Having school children in a converted GAA clubhouse with a bar over head is just unacceptable.

“The Minister for Education, Jan O’Sullivan has now confirmed that her Department has sought the assistance of Sligo County Council to identify and acquire a site for the Gaelscoil. Potential site options have been assessed and preferred sites have now been identified.

“This is good news for those that have been campaigning for a permanent building for the school. I also welcome the Minister’s assurance that her Department is working closely with the County Council to advance the site acquisition process.

“The funding application for the construction of the new permanent building for the pupils and teachers of Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré will now be considered within the context of the Department of Education’s overall budget for major capital projects. I am in weekly contact with many parents and I will continue to lobby for investment in a new school for Gaelscoil Chnoc Na Ré.”