New buildings on the way for two Athenry schools

APPROVAL has been given for the construction of new buildings for two schools in Athenry.

A new school for the secondary gaeilscoil Coláiste an Eachréidh to accommodate 450 students with three Special Education Needs classrooms has been approved.

Gaelscoil Riada will also get a new building with 16 mainstream classrooms and two Special Education Needs classroom.

The projects are under the Department of Education’s Large Scale Capital Programme. Galway East TD Albert Dolan says the approvals are a significant milestone for both school communities.

“Athenry is one of the fastest-growing towns in the West of Ireland, and investment in educational infrastructure must keep pace with that growth,” commented Deputy Dolan.

“These new school buildings will provide modern, high-quality learning environments for hundreds of students and ensure that both schools are well placed to meet future demand,” he added.

Deputy Dolan also noted the inclusion of Special Education Needs accommodation within both projects and said that access to appropriate educational supports and inclusive school facilities is vital for the growth of children of all abilities.