O’Dowd makes decision on Post-Primary provision in South Fermanagh

Education Minister, John O’Dowd, has made decisions on Post-Primary provision in South Fermanagh.

The Minister has approved a Development Proposal to close St Eugene’s College in Roslea and St Comhghall’s College and to establish a new Post-Primary school in Lisnaskea with effect from 1 September 2016 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Commenting on his decisions the Minister said:

“It is important that my decisions are in the best educational interests of all pupils in the area. My decision to close St Eugene’s College and St Comhghall’s College is due to the on-going sustainability issues being experienced by the schools. 

“I believe that my decision to establish a new 11-19 Post-Primary school in Lisnaskea is in the best interests of all the pupils in the area.” 

The Minister continued:

“There is a need to address the sustainability issues of the other Post-Primary schools in the south Fermanagh area and further consideration should now be given to the development of a full area solution.”

In conclusion, the Minister said:

“I would also like to pay tribute to everyone connected with St Eugene’s and St Comhghall’s who, over the years, have shown great commitment and dedication to the school and its pupils.”

Notes to editors: 

1. The Education Authority published Development Proposals No 416, 417 and 418 on 2 September 2015, on behalf of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools.
2. Development Proposal 416 proposes to discontinue St Comhghall’s College, Lisnaskea from 1 September 2016, or as soon as possible thereafter.
3. Development Proposal No 417 proposes to discontinue St Eugene’s College, Roslea from 1 September 2016, or as soon as possible thereafter.
4. Development Proposal No 418 proposes to establish a new Catholic Maintained, Co-Educational, 11-19, Post Primary School for 650 pupils (being in effect an amalgamation of St Comhghall’s College, Lisnaskea and St Eugene’s College, Roslea) in Lisnaskea with effect from 1 September 2016.
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