Minister announces closure of St Colmcille's Primary School

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has approved a Development Proposal to close St Colmcille’s Primary School.

Commenting on the decision, the Minister said: “The school has suffered from declining enrolments in recent years, with only 15 children enrolled in 2008/09. It is never an easy decision to close a school, however, I am confident that the closure, and the transfer of the pupils to other schools, is in the best educational interests of the pupils.

“I would like to pay tribute to all those connected with St Colmcille’s Primary School, who over many years showed their commitment and dedication to the school and its pupils.”

Notes to Editors:

1. On 23 April 2009, the Southern Education and Library Board (SELB) published Development Proposal No. 235 on behalf of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools, which proposed the closure of St Colmcille’s Primary School with effect from 31 August 2009, or as soon as possible thereafter.

2. There are 15 pupils enrolled for the 2008/09 school year who will relocate to alternative schools in the area.

3. Media queries, contact the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9701. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.