Minister signals progress on major extension for Mayo school

A multi million euro extension for a Castlebar secondary school has advanced to the next stage of the procurement process, said Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD.

Minister Dillon stated, “I am delighted to receive confirmation that the two-storey extension at St. Gerald’s College in Castlebar has progressed with tenders being evaluated and finalised, with a contractor to be appointed shortly.

‘The works will include two general classrooms, a construction studies room, machine and preparation room on the first floor, while the second floor will have an additional two general classrooms, home economics room and textiles room.

Each level will have a circulation link to the existing building as well as facilities for lockers, stairs and toilets.

Minor upgrade works will also be completed to the existing building.”

He added, “This project will provide enormous benefits to St. Gerald’s campus in modernising its learning environment to cater for the growing needs of pupils in Castlebar and surrounding areas.

The project will significantly extend the capacity of the school which is badly needed.

I want to commend principal Shaun Burke, his staff, students and Board of Management for their persistence in pushing for this project and look forward to it coming to fruition.”