New play facilities opened at St Joseph’s Primary School in East Wall

Gary Ibbotson 27 Oct 2021
Pupils Leo Smith (6) and Ines Tanasa (7) take centre court with Minister for Finance and T.D. for Dublin Central, Paschal Donohoe, Maureen O’Sullivan, chairperson of St Joseph’s Co-Ed National School and Eamonn O’Reilly, CEO, Dublin Port Company. Picture Conor McCabe Photography.

Last week, Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe, T.D., officially opened a new state-of-the-art playground for the 240 pupils of St. Joseph’s Co-ed. Primary School in Dublin’s East Wall.

This is the first time in more than 10 years that the school has been able to carry out a major upgrade on the senior playground for pupils at the 62-year old school.

The playground is part of the local community benefit from Dublin Port’s MP2 Project.

The new facilities “bring to life” what was once a large open space on the senior playground in the school grounds.

In its place is a new multi-purpose all-weather pitch that is wheelchair accessible, with equipment to cater for both team sports and individual play.

Basketball, football, gymnastics bars, a swing, roundabout and boxing bags have all been incorporated into the new design, finished in a cushioned surface.

Minister Donohoe, who unveiled a plaque at the school, said he was “delighted” to attend the opening.

“My compliments go to the entire school team who have created a vibrant outdoor space where pupils of all ages and abilities can learn and play.

“Recreation is such an important part of the school experience, supporting children’s development and the wellbeing of the wider community.

“I have no doubt that the playground will be a huge hit with the boys and girls who returned to school in September to discover their school yard transformed.”

Maureen O’Sullivan, chairperson of St. Joseph’s said: “The entire school community is excited to celebrate the opening of the new playground with Minister Donohoe as guest of honour.

“A special word of thanks goes to Dublin Port Company whose ongoing support has been such a positive in the lives of our community.

“It means so much to provide the pupils with a dedicated and modern space designed to encourage healthy, active lifestyles from a young age.”

 

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