PROGRESS with the building of a number of new classrooms for Scariff Community College has been welcomed, following un update from the Minister for Education. 

Approval for the construction of two mainstream classroom as well as metalwork and woodwork rooms, was given in 2017 and last week Minister Normal Foley gave positive news to Deputy Cathal Crowe.

The Fianna Fáil member said he received a call from the minister who was in Boston for St Patrick’s Day.

“She confirmed that her department has been examining tenders submitted for the development of two new mainstream classrooms and a metalwork room and a woodwork room for Scariff Community College and they’re now happy for this to now proceed to construction,” Deputy Crowe said.

“There should be no further delays and I’m hoping the works can begin in earnest. I’ve been out to visit the school and saw how many of the classes were still being taught in prefab rooms – something rarely seen these days.”

Deputy Crowe praised the work of the school team and board of management.

“I want to pay particular tribute to the principal Angela McNamara, who is not only a wonderful ambassador for the school but also a past pupil herself, as well as my colleague Councillor Pat Hayes, who is the school’s board of management chair, for their work in getting this over the line,” he said.

“I’ve been on the phone to both and they’re thrilled with this news. The bigger winners though are the students who will use these facilities. I’m particularly excited about the subject-specific rooms that will really enhance the offering at Scariff Community College.”

Deputy Crowe commended Minister Foley for approving projects that for been waiting in the wings. 

“She has so far approved nearly all applications that have gone before her from Co. Clare and I’m continually working with schools in the county,” he said.

“As a teacher, I have a deep rooted interest in the educational needs of the children of Clare and I will be at the beck and call of any principal who needs assistance in getting a project over the line.”

In February, in response to a question from Deputy Crowe, Minister Foley confirmed that under her Department’s Additional Accommodation Scheme the Scariff Community College room would be constructed.

At that time, Minister Foley also confirmed that the project has been “devolved for delivery to Limerick and Clare ETB (LCETB)”.