Disappointment greets news of school closure

A FINE Gael TD has called for a new school to be developed as soon as possible on the site of Notre Dame Des Missions in Churchtown.

Deputy Josepha Madigan was speaking after the recent announcement that the secondary school is to close in 2019, with the junior school shutting its doors in June 2017.

“It was very disappointing to hear that Notre Dame school is to close,” she said. “The news has come as a terrible shock to the many students, parents and teachers served by the school, which has been an important part of the community for many years. 

“The decision to close the school has caught many by surprise, leaving people in the dark.”

The Dublin Rathdown TD welcomed the decision by the Department of Education and Skills to retain the grounds for use as a school. However, she said that clarity is needed as soon as possible as to the timeline of its establishment, particularly given that the primary school is due to close in 2017. 

“This will allow students, parents and teachers to suitably plan for the next academic year,” Deputy Madigan added. “I am calling on the Department of Education to expedite the process of finding a new school for this site. 

“The many parents who have contacted me on this issue have expressed their deep concern about finding a classroom place for their children for next year on such short notice. The same parents have also offered glowing praise for the teachers in the school and the great work that they do. These teachers deserve clarity as to their futures and it would be a terrible shame if such a well-regarded group of teachers is to be separated due to this unfortunate school closure.”

Senator Neale Richmond (FG) also expressed disappointment at the announcement of the school’s closure.

“I am truly saddened and disappointed to hear that this very famous school is to close its doors after over 60 years serving the people of south Dublin from its prime Churchtown location,” he said. “Many of my friends attended the school and I have fond memories of watching my sisters playing hockey matches there.”