I have been keeping you updated regularly concerning the progress of the re-development plans for St. Colmcille’s Junior & Senior National Schools, Knocklyon.

I am pleased to bring you the latest detailed information:

o Very significant progress has been made on this major project over recent months. o The Boards of Management of the schools will be applying for Planning Permission for this major re-development project within 2/3 months

o This project, one of the largest school development projects ever undertaken in Ireland, has been allocated a budget of €18million by the Department of Education & Science.

o In advance of the application for planning permission, I am advised that a series of information meetings will be organised to brief local residents in the adjoining estates. These meetings are intended to outline the proposed details and timescale of the building project.

I am delighted that this much-needed re-development will provide the community of Knocklyon with state-of-the-art Primary Schools (catering for children from 4½ to 12 years of age). This re-development includes the replacement of ALL Temporary and Pre-Fabricated Classrooms, and includes a top quality Sports Hall. I am pleased to have worked very closely with the school authorities on the progression of this project over the last number of years. As always, I will continue to keep you updated with accurate and detailed information.