Construction go-ahead for Lismullen NS

The long awaited new school building for Lismullen National School has been given the green light for construction.

Minister Thomas Byrne has confirmed that the Department of Education has given the go ahead for the much needed project.

Staff and parents have been campaigning for almost two decades for the new premises, pointing out the current building is not fit for purpose.

Children and staff endure cold, cramped conditions every day and regularly have to wear coats, hats and scarves indoors.

The school has no indoor facilities for PE, concerts or assembly and just one toilet for 25 members of staff.

Minister Byrne said the large scale capital project involves the construction of a new 16 classroom school, a GP Hall and classrooms for children with special educational needs.

“As a local TD who has worked tirelessly, both in government and opposition for the delivery of this important local project over many years, today is very special.

“The ‘approval to proceed to construction’ is significant milestone in the progression and delivery of this project. The next step will be boots on the ground building the much needed new school.

“I want to pay tribute to the local school community, the students, parents, staff and the principal for their perseverance in getting this project across the line."

Part of the current school is 65 years old. A new building was added in 1992 and there are a lot of prefabs in use.

Problems they have experienced over the years included roofs caving in, having nowhere to store equipment,no PE facilities and no infrastructure for laptops.