In her second school visit in the county this week, Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, Mary Coughlan, opened a new €716,000 extension and community car park in Kilcleagh National School, Castledaly on Tuesday June 8.
The school, which has an enrolment of 87 pupils, got two new classrooms, a computer room, resource room, and staff room with the extension.
In addition, the all-purpose room at the school has been upgraded and fitted with a new hardwood floor, new windows and doors, and three of the older classrooms have been converted into two larger classrooms.
Refurbishment work on the school also included painting and fitting out, the provision of a new sewage treatment plant and resurfacing of the school yard.
The new community car park, which was funded locally at a cost of €31,345, has spaces for 25 cars.
Speaking at the school, the Tánaiste commended the school’s principal, Mary O'Connell, teachers, pupils and the local community for working so diligently to bring the project to completion.
While at Kilcleagh the Tánaiste also raised the school's third green flag which was awarded for water conservation measures.
The Tánaiste also praised the school for its involvement in Gaelic football, hurling, swimming and tag-rugby.
“Participation in sports brings an appreciation of personal health and fitness, develops a positive self-image and teaches young people how to work as part of a team,” said the Tanaiste.
Since 2007, just under €50m has been invested in Westmeath in capital projects by the Department of Education, while €579m has been similarly invested nationally this year.
At primary level over 14,500 pupils will get permanent school places while at post-primary level 1,900 students will benefit from new permanent school accommodation and a further 7,400 pupils will benefit from major extension and refurbishment projects in their schools.
