Decision is ‘imminent' on Claregalway school site

By TOM GILMORE A DECISION on the site for the interim accommodation for the new Claregalway post-primary school, Colaiste Baile Chlair â€â€œ Clare Galway College is imminent, according to Co Galway VEC. When contacted by The Tuam Herald this week Joe McDonagh, CEO of the VEC, said a decision on the site is currently being finalised by the Department of Education and Science.[private] He added that a principal-designate is also expected to be appointed by December. The present progress follows a very successful information evening recently for parents and guardians of prospective students, which was attended by over 200 people. The Vocational Education Committee (VEC) was announced as patron of the new post-primary school earlier this year and CEO said that as many as four first year classes were enrolled at the recent information evening. Dr Paddy Tobin of the group who campaigned for the school in Claregalway also says they were very impressed by the large attendance at the information evening and they are now looking forward to the initial site being selected and further progress being made towards the opening of the new school in September 2013. It is expected that there will be an initial enrolment of approximately 100 students and it is expected that the new college will eventually cater for up to 800 students. Education Minister Ruairi Quinn also confirmed his Department's commitment to the project when questioned about it during a recent visit to Galway city.[/private]