Latest Laois News: Strong case made to Minister for new Abbeyleix school

Rock solid case made for new school in Abbeyleix: Stanley

Local Sinn Féin TD Brian Stanley said as follows:

“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.

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’’.