News
Smith attends official opening of new extension to Billis NS, Ballyjamesduff
The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Cavan/Monaghan, T.D. Mr. Brendan Smith, has attended the official opening of a new extension to Billis National School, Ballyjamesduff.
The extension includes two new classrooms which received funding of €246,000 from the Department of Education and Science. €50,000 towards the costs was raised locally by parents.
Minister Smith was very glad to announce at the ceremony that a further grant of €10,000 for computer equipment for the two new classrooms has been approved by the Government.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Smith said that this was a very special day for the whole school community and a vote of confidence in its future. He said that it was his good fortune to be present at a number of ceremonies recently to mark major building projects in local schools. “This is an example of the Government’s continuing investment in the country’s school infrastructure, which enhances the provision of an enriching and high quality education for our children. Despite the very serious pressure facing the public finances, the Government will be spending over €617 million on school building projects around the country this year”, Minister Smith said.
Minister Smith also complimented the children on winning their second Green Flag which was a clear demonstration of their determination to make a better, cleaner environment for all.
In conclusion, he complimented Principal Karen Divine and all her staff for the quality of education provided by the school. He acknowledged the central role of the Board of Management and Chairman Revd Craig McCauley. He also paid a special tribute to the contribution of the parents, who through their collective efforts, had raised such a significant sum towards the new project.
