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  • O’Dowd officially opens Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagáin in North Belfast

    Topics:
    • Schools and infrastructure, 
    • Schools' estate

    Date published: 11 February 2016

    Education Minister John O’Dowd has officially opened Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagáin in North Belfast. The new school represents a £2million investment from the Department of Education.

    Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagáin is a new five class base school on the grounds of the former Cliftonville Cricket Grounds. As well as the new school, a new floodlit 3G pitch is being created as well as upgraded changing rooms funded by the Belfast City Council for use by the school and local sports clubs.

    Speaking as he performed the official opening at Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagáin, John O’Dowd said:

    “I am delighted to return to your school today to see the transformation that has occurred in over a year. What a difference your new state-of-the-art facilities will make to a vibrant and growing school. Together with the modern sports facilities, funded by the Belfast City Council, your learning environment has been greatly enhanced.

    “Today marks a new chapter in the history of your school. I want to pay tribute to all those associated with the school who have assisted you on this journey. It is most definitely a cause for celebration. I have no doubt that Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagáin will continue to grow from strength to strength. I wish everyone connected with the school best wishes for the future.”

    Principal Máire Úi Éigeartaigh said:

    “We are delighted today to welcome our school community to the official opening of this new school building.

    “We pay tribute to those over 21 years ago who were brave enough to take the first steps into Irish medium primary education in North Belfast. We hope to build on that vision in all our future endeavours.”

    Notes to editors:

     

    1. Glasgiven Contracts Ltd were awarded the construction contract.
    2. The Department of Education’s ‘Education Works’ campaign promotes the value of education. This year’s campaign aims to ensure that parents have information on schooling and that they are aware of the steps they can take to ‘Get Involved’ and support their teenager in achieving good outcomes at school. Watch out for the ads on television, radio and outdoor locations. The campaign highlights the vital role families can play in helping children do well at school and improve their life chances. Visit nidirect - Education works for more information or watch the TV ad on the Department’s YouTube channel.
    3. See photos from the Department of Education in our flickr collection.
    4. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.

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