Construction of primary school extension to begin in April

Bunscoil na Toirbhirte, Mitchelstown have announced plans to extend their facilities at the primary school at Brigown to accommodate children with autism.

Work is expected to begin on a single storey extension to the east elevation of the primary school, a single storey extension to the west of the school and a new disabled access ramp, by April this year.

The new build will incorporate a new classroom, corridor and sensory room, a new entrance hall, SET room/office and enclosed porch area and a new disabled access ramp.

Speaking to The Avondhu, Fr Gabriel said children with autism had ‘nowhere to go’, “so we decided to step up.

“We are very fortunate to have the caliber of principal, teachers, SNA staff, secretary and caretaker here at Bunscoil na Toirbhirte as everyone is very committed. We are expanding because of their great work. The new classroom will be home to a maximum of six pupils with one extra full-time teacher and two SNA teachers,” he added.

Before construction begins in April, a temporary portacabin with wheelchair access will be installed in February. The portacabin will remain until the new extension is completed.