Deputy Fergus O’Dowd and Cllr Dolores Minogue have welcomed news that the long awaited new school for Ardee Educate Together has been given the green light to proceed to construction.

Construction green light for Ardee Educate Together

Noelle Finegan

Published: Fri 2 Sep 2022, 10:24 PM

The long-awaited Ardee Educate Together new build has finally been given the green light to proceed to construction by Minister for Education Norma Foley.

Minister Foley has confirmed that the project will encompass an eight classroom school and a four class Special Education Needs Base, which was upgraded from a two-classroom SEN base through a revised schedule of accommodation agreed with the Department in 2020.

The news has been welcomed by Louth and East Meath TD Fergus O'Dowd and local councillor Dolores Minogue

Deputy O’Dowd said: “This is fantastic news for the faculty, students and parents and despite the very frustrating delays we are now very close to seeing the first sod being turned on this vital project.

“I would like to again thank Principal Middleton and the parents council for campaigning and getting this project across the line. I have campaigned for this new build alongside my colleague, Councillor Dolores Minogue, through the Dail and separately with the council.

“This new state of the art school that will be available for generations to come and will expand non-denominational choice in the area which is positive news.”

Cllr Minogue said: “This news will be warmly welcomed locally and I have every confidence this new school will address the expanding needs in the area. It's long been recognised that the current site is not fit for purpose and I’m delighted the school finally has the green light to proceed to construction.”