‘Parts of the school are over 130 years old and are no longer fit for purpose’ : McGlone

Mr McGlone said, “I welcome the visit by the Education Minister to Holy Family Primary School.

“I had asked the Minister to make time in his schedule to come to the school to see for himself the need for investment in the school buildings.

“I have been assisting the school in their efforts to secure funding for rebuilding work. Parts of the school are over 130 years old and are no longer fit for purpose.

“It is essential that we maintain and update school buildings, such as the ones at Holy Family, to ensure these schools can continue to play a central part in the educational experience of our young people.

“I thank the Minister for coming to the school this week to talk to teachers and parents about the import role the school has in the community.

“My thanks to the school as well for the kind hospitality we received on the day. The pupils put on a wonderful display of the multi-cultural talent this diverse school has with pupils of twenty different nationalities.

“The SDLP will continue to work closely with the school and the department to secure the funding for the necessary work at Holy Family.”

Meanwhile, Mr McGlone also welcomed Mr Givan’s visit to Kilronan Special School in Magherafelt.

Earlier this year, it was announced that Kilronan Special School would be included among 15 new build and extension and refurbishment projects for schools to receive capital funding this year.

Mr McGlone said, “I welcome the visit by the Education Minister to Kilronan School to see the plans for the £7.4million investment in the school.

“The school plays an important role in the lives of young people with severe learning difficulties. It provides a safe and stimulating learning environment where pupils can achieve, feel valued and are respected as individuals.

“The improved facilities at the school provided through this funding will enhance that environment immensely.

“Our special thanks to the dedicated staff at the school for the excellent and very caring work they do.”