Additional places for St Colman’s

Kevin Donaghy said the green light for the extra places would allow the school to accommodate all of their first place P1 preferences this September.

“It was an uphill battle with the Department of Education but with the support of the local community and political representatives we were able to make Department of Education see sense,” he said.

“I would like to thank all of those who supported the school. Without their support, hard work and dedication we would not have had such a successful outcome.

“This is a great result for the school and the pupils who wish to attend our school.”

SDLP MP Maragret Ritchie also welcomed the Department of Education’s approval.

She said, “I am delighted that further pupils will be accommodated and children will be able to attend their local primary school, which is an important factor for parents.

“It is a huge disappointment when children have to miss out on their preferred choice of school due to a shortage of places, and I will continue to press for adequate provision to be made in our schools.

“I wish St Colman’s PS continued success in the future in delivering a high quality education for its pupils.”

Local councillor Seamus Doyle said: “The Minister for Education recognised the SDLP view on lobbying for these places, and he and the Department have implemented the additional places after the pressure outlined publicly on this demand.”