Dunkerrin NS extension approved to proceed to construction
Government approval has been granted for construction to begin on a major planned extension at Scoil Muire Bainríoghan, Dunkerrin, Birr.
Approval for the project to commence was confirmed last Tuesday evening, November 10, and includes a single storey extension and alterations to the existing school, and provision of a new Special Education Needs classroom.
It also includes the installation of a new wastewater treatment system and polishing filter, provision for a set-down and parking area, and all associated site works.
In June, the project at Dunkerrin NS progressed from planning approval to its tender process under the Department of Education and Youth Additional School Accommodation Scheme.
Deputy John Clendennen TD, who said he has visited the school and maintained ongoing engagement with Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton regarding the project, said the announcement marks “a significant milestone” for Dunkerrin NS.
“The latest approval represents another important step towards delivering the additional accommodation needed by the school community<” said Deputy Clendennen.
“This is very positive news for Dunkerrin NS and a significant milestone in a project that has been eagerly anticipated by the entire school community.
I have seen first-hand the commitment of the staff to providing the best possible learning environment for their pupils. The addition of a dedicated Special Education Needs classroom will further enhance the school’s capacity to support children with additional educational needs,” he added.
Deputy Clendennden acknowledged the school principal Simone Mitchell and the Board of Management for their “continued dedication and determination in progressing the project”.
“Having had the opportunity to visit Dunkerrin NS during the earlier stages of this project, I am now very much looking forward to returning to see the completed extension and the positive difference it will make for pupils and staff,” he said.
Deputy Clendennen said that while the announcement was an important development for Dunkerrin, he remained conscious of a number of other schools across Offaly awaiting further progress on their own additional school accommodation projects.
“I am acutely aware there are other school communities across Offaly still awaiting news on the progression of their building projects. I continue to engage with Minister Naughton and her Department on these outstanding projects, and I will continue to advocate for their advancement through the various stages of planning, approval and delivery,” he said.