The Educate Together school in Knocknacarra will move from its current temporary accommodation, and into the former Gaelscoil Mhic Amhlaigh off the Cappagh Road, at the start of the next school term.
The Minister for Education, Richard Bruton, has confirmed the long awaited move for the school. Concerns had been growing that the planned move would be delayed because of vandalism at the former Gaelscoil building, which has lain vacant since the school moved to a new building near Millars Lane earlier this year. In January, Gaelscoil Mhic Amhlaigh moved into its new on Millars Lane in Knocknacarra. It has 24 classrooms, offices, support rooms, and sports facilities.
Educate Together Knocknacarra is currently at Brooklawn House, Galway West Business Park, comprising three mainstream classrooms, one staff room, and one small classroom for support teaching.
At the request of city councillor Donal Lyons and following representations by parents, Independent Galway West TD Noel Grealish raised the issue of the proposed move in a parliamentary question to the Minister. In reply, Minister Bruton said: “I wish to confirm the school is due to move from its temporary location into a Department owned permanent school building from September 2018. Some minor works are required in respect of the permanent building to facilitate the move and these works will be undertaken during the summer months.”
Cllr Lyons said he was delighted the situation had been clarified, and that it "clears the way for the move to a permanent home for Educate Together in Knocknacarra". He added: “It will make all the difference in the world to the children and staff to be able to move to a purpose built school after almost four years in temporary accommodation in what is essentially an office building. I hope that whatever work is needed to clear the way for Educate Together to make the move to their new home is carried out without delay."
