07 June, 2006 - Minister Hanafin opens major extension at Brierfield National School

This is a proud day for the staff and pupils - Minister Hanafin

Mary Hanafin T.D., Minister for Education and Science, today officially opened the new extension at Brierfield National School, Tuam, Co. Galway.  Brierfield national school is a co-educational school with an enrolment of more than 65 pupils.

Brierfield National School was established in 1834 and the current building was constructed in 1892.  The Department of Education and Science contributed €275,000 towards the refurbishment and extension through the Devolved Grant and Summer Works Schemes.  'This building project has enhanced the sense of partnership and ownership that exists in this school community.  The project could not have been completed without a combination of strong leadership and local enthusiasm and initiative' said Minister Hanafin. 

Prior to the extension and refurbishment, the school had three small mainstream classrooms. The new schoolhouse has four large classrooms, a sports hall, a staff room and a range of smaller ancillary rooms.

Minister Hanafin acknowledged Brierfield National School's academic and cultural achievements in sport and music.  The school has achieved success in gaelic sports, basketball, soccer and olympic handball and has been represented on many occasions at the All Ireland Slogadh and Fleadh Ceoil.  'I believe that Brierfield was the first Connacht school to win the All-Ireland olympic handball title.  Now that you have a new sports hall, I'm sure you'll continue to do very well in sport' said Minister Hanafin.

The Minister thanked all those involved in the project and said 'this wonderful new extension is an investment in the future of your children and your community.'

End.