Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has approved a proposal from the Western
Education and Library Board to close Shanmullagh Primary School in County Fermanagh from 31 August 2008.
The school’s enrolments have been declining for some years and only 24 children are enrolled in 2007/8. The school’s Board of Governors have accepted the necessity of closure.
Commenting on the proposal, Ms Ruane said that the decision was in the best interests of the pupils.
She said: “A decision to close a small rural school that has served the community for many years is never an easy one.
“I believe, however, that the decision is in the best educational interests of the children. They will have the opportunity to benefit from a broader educational experience provided by one of the neighbouring schools in the area.”
Notes to Editors:
- Shanmullagh Primary School is a co-educational controlled primary school situated between Enniskillen and Ballinamallard in a mainly rural community.
- The Western Education and Library Board (WELB) published Development Proposal No 203 on 10 January 2008 to discontinue Shanmullagh Primary School, with effect from 31 August 2008, or as soon as possible thereafter and to arrange for the transfer of pupils to suitable alternative schools. The statutory two-month period for objections ended on 10 March 2008.
- The WELB propose to close the school because of declining enrolments.
- For 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.
