Minister for Education turns first sod on Mayo college extension

by Nathan Keane

Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton has made the trip to St. Gerald’s DLS College, Castlebar, to inspect the construction of the school’s new extension.

Minister Naughton was accompanied by Minister Alan Dillon and Deputy Keira Keogh, as well as Fine Gael Mayo County Councillor Ger Deere.

Hildegarde Naughton was greeted on her arrival by a number of student musicians, staff and teachers, most notably Mr. Shaun Burke, principal, and Ms. Regina Duffy, vice-principal.

After enjoying some traditional Irish music at the foyer, Minister Naughton was given a tour of the school, getting to see the science labs, the DLS hall, the gymnasium and the new extension that is currently being built.

This new extension, which is situated in front of the DLS hall, will facilitate four additional mainstream classrooms: a home economics room, a construction studies room, a textiles room and a preparation room.

Here she turned the sod alongside Minister of State Alan Dillon.

The main contractors are MVS Construction, Castlebar.

Afterwards, Minister Naughton gave a short speech complimenting St. Gerald’s College for its ambition, as well as its ‘sporting and academic excellence’.

An enjoyable visit for all was finished off with refreshments in the staff room.

Speaking to The Connaught Telegraph, Ms. Regina Duffy, vice-principal, stated: “The new extension will include four classrooms, a woodwork room, a preparation room, a Home Economics room, and a textiles room.

"This much-needed development will support our growing school community of almost 700 boys for years to come. It will give students access to up-to-date facilities and a broader range of subject options, supporting them to reach their full potential.

"It will also enable our dedicated staff to deliver their subjects in the best possible learning spaces, enhancing teaching and learning across the school.”