Rethink on decision to split Cork school across two locations

The decision to split a Cork school across two locations on opposite sides of Carrigaline is expected to be reconsidered.

In recent weeks, concerns were raised by the board of management of Owenabue Educate Together National School following proposals to split the school across two campuses with some classes remaining on the current Heron’s Wood site and others moving to the site of Carrigaline Educate Together National School in Kilnagleary.

However, Owenabue Educate Together National School (ETNS) principal Trina Golden said she now understands this proposal is being reconsidered.

Positively engaging

Speaking to The Echo, Ms Golden said the Department of Education is “positively engaging” with the school to consider an alternative campus that is closer to the current site in Heron’s Wood.

Ms Golden said that the “biggest worry” for the school right now is the funding of the split site and the impact that it will have on the students.

“We can barely keep the lights on in the building we have, and it’s not just lights, there’s two sets of resources, both staff rooms, two photocopiers, two broadband bills, insurance. Those are all significant costs for a school.”

The completion of a permanent site for the Owenabue ETNS is expected within the next four to five years.

Progress

The issue was raised in the Dáil recently by Sinn Féin Cork Cork South-Central TD Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire, who said: “It is welcome that we have seen some progress here”.

He said he has raised funding concerns around the split campus with Education Minister Norma Foley, adding: “This needs consideration from the department, and we need to see a clear plan from the department for the school.”

A spokesperson for the Department of Education said: “With respect to the school accommodation requirements for Owenabue NS for the 2024/25 school year, the department is continuing to explore all potential options with the school’s patron. Department officials are working closely with the patron to ensure that an appropriate solution is put in place as soon as possible.”