'Much-needed' extension at Offaly national school set to proceed to tender

An extension at Gortnamóna National School (SN Seosamh) in Blueball, Tullamore, has been approved to proceed to the tendering stage.

Confirmation that the project would now be proceeding to tender was issued by Education Minister Hildegarde Naughton earlier this week.

The project, to be delivered under the Additional School Accommodation Scheme, represents a crucial step forward for the school.

The approved project brief includes an extension comprising of one special education classroom, one central activities unit, and one special education tuition classroom, which replaces an existing prefab.

Fine Gael TD for Offaly, Deputy John Clendennen, warmly welcomed the announcement, saying the "much-needed" additional facilities would have a positive impact on the local area.

"This is fantastic news for the students, staff and the wider school community at Gortnamóna National School. The provision of these dedicated special education facilities will greatly enhance the learning experience for all involved," he said.

Deputy Clendennen also acknowledged the collaborative effort that has driven this project forward. "I was very happy to work closely with Cllr Neil Feighery, on the progression of this vital project, having visited the school and met with principal Elaine Flynn last October.

"Securing this approval to proceed to tender is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in advocating for the best possible educational facilities for our local children."

Deputy Clendennen said he subsequently met directly with Minister Naughton to highlight the importance of this project and has continued to advocate for its progression since.

"I'm looking forward to seeing this project commence. This is a good-news day for Gortnamona National School but I'm also conscious that there are other projects throughout the county awaiting progress.

"I will continue to advocate for the advancement of our educational facilities across Offaly, as needed," concluded Deputy Clendennen.