Birr's new school building to open on Tuesday

Birr's Gaelscoil na Laochra students will move to its new building on Tuesday.

Friday last was students' final day in its former premises in Sandymount Haven.

The move will happen today (Monday_ and the pupils will begin in the new school building tomorrow (Tuesday.)

Principal Niamh Uí Chléirigh said: “We are extremely excited and grateful to start in our permanent home. It has been a long road but we got there in the end.”

It brings to an end a long campaign for a permanent home for the school which opened eight years ago.

Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board received planning permission in May last for the new building at a greenfield site off the N52 in Birr.

Independent TD for Laois Offaly Carol Nolan has warmly welcomed the news that the school will finally transition to its new home after a long and challenging process extending over many years.

Deputy Nolan said she had consistently and strongly advocated for new school with the Minister for Education Norma Foley, including raising the matter for priority debate in the Dáil.

“This really is great news for all concerned and I know that the entire school community will be delighted with this progress,” said Deputy Nolan.

“I also want to acknowledge that Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) worked diligently to advance the project since progress and responsibility was devolved to them.”