Funding approved for new Ballyvary NS classrooms

BALLYVARY Central National School has been granted funding for two new classrooms and a wheelchair accessible toilet.

This accommodation has been sought and needed for many years.

Announcing the news, Senator Michelle Mulherin said she was delighted to help get it across the line.

She stated: “I have visited the school and met with the principal Mary Cunningham and management where they set out a very compelling case.

“I went to the then Minister for Education, Richard Bruton and the new Minister Joe McHugh and fought their case including at the FG parliamentary party meeting.

“What is remarkable about this school is the way the local community support it and the way this school is truly a hub at the heart of the community.

“This school is in a rural area but is bucking the trend for such schools and actually expanding and now has 204 pupils. The school draws students from Ballyvary, Keelogues, Bohola, Turlough and Ballynew.

"A visit to the school shows excellent play and sports facilities - all weather pitches for football and camogie and basketball courts - all provided by the community to which full access is given to the pupils of the school. In turn the community has access to the school facilities after school hours for weekly meetings and other community and sporting activities.

“This will all be complimented by the funding we have secured from Minister Michael Ring for a looped walk near the school which will connect up with the path to the school from Ballyvary village again opening up these shared facilities and making them more accessible.

“I believe this school and its community is a model of excellence for cooperation and best practice in rural areas which are determined to remain vibrant, to provide community facilities and ensure their school is well supported.

“I was delighted to work with the principal, Mrs Cunningham and the Chair, Noel Burke, of the Ballyvary Keelogues Development Company and want to give great credit to them and the local community for what they have achieved to date.

"I know this announcement today of additional accommodation will only mean bigger and better things for everyone.”