Commenting on her decision, Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, said: “Gaelscoil an Damba was established five years ago by a small group of parents who wanted their children educated through the medium of Irish. Unfortunately the school has struggled to maintain viability with pupil numbers reaching only 29 in 2007/08. It is with regret that I have approved the proposal from the Management Committee to close the school.
“The school has taken the decision to close with the best educational interests of the children in mind and has worked carefully and sensitively to manage the closure and transfer of children. There are places available at other Irish-medium schools in this area that will be able to offer these pupils a broader educational experience within the medium of Irish.
“I would like to thank Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta for the support they have shown this school and the wider Irish-medium sector. I would also pay tribute to the Board of Governors, the teachers and staff for all the work that they have undertaken at the school over the years and I wish the pupils every success in their future education.”
Notes to Editors:
- The Belfast Education and Library Board published Development Proposal No 189 on 17th April 2008, stating that the Management Committee of Gaelscoil an Damba proposes to close Gaelscoil an Damba with effect from 31 August 2008 or as soon as possible thereafter. The two month objection period ended on 17th June 2008. There were no objections to the closure proposal.
- Gaelscoil an Damba opened in 2003 in prefabricated accommodation on a temporary site in Moyard Park, Belfast.
- The school had only six Year 1 pupils admitted in 2007/08 and a total of 29 pupils enrolled.
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