Lurga National School sets fundraising task for safety

A SOUTH Galway school recently launched an initiative aimed at raising funds to provide vital parking facilities outside its premises.
Two famous past pupils of Lurga National School, jockey Derek O’Connor and Galway hurler Joe Gantley were on hand to launch the project for a new school car park and set down area at the weekend. The Alliance National Hurling League Cup was also in attendance at Whelan’s Pub, Shanaglish.
A number of near misses outside of the school means building works are crucial for the safety of children at the school.
“There have been a few close calls so it is seen as a health and safety issue. Everyone has cars now so it is more of an issue now than it used to be. It has really come to the fore as a result of the near misses,” said a representative of the school’s board of management.
Event organisers are hopeful work will begin on the area early in the summer and have stressed the huge amount of support received from parents in relation to this project.
Paul Walsh, chairman of the board of management, described the progress made in bringing the twin projects to fruition.
“The land has been purchased, planning has been approved and the project is now at tendering stage. We hope to commence work in June as this project is vital for the health and safety of our children attending school and hopefully the children who will attend in the future,” he said.
In an unusual coup, the school has managed to secure a week’s break at a villa in the South of France with travel expenses, and a weekend break at the Lodge, Doonbeg Golf Club in Clare to tempt people to help out with fundraising.
“We are seeking the support of the wider community for this worthy cause,” Mr Walsh said.
“Just because we are in a recession, it does not mean we cannot care for and educate our children. As many people remember, this community completed important projects like Beagh GAA pitch and community centre during difficult times in the past,” Mr Walsh concluded.