'Deeply disturbing conditions' An Post workers union explain huge gift to Laois school
New bus donated by The Communications Workers Union to Portlaoise special school
The Communications Workers Union Ireland has explained why they were moved to donate a new bus to a Laois special school, and the incredible cost.
The Union which represents An Post workers and others in in the telecommunications and postal industry, spent €63,500 to buy and adapt an accessible bus for Kolbe Special School pupils in Portlaoise.
A spokesperson told the Leinster Express / Laois Live that they found the plight of the school "deeply disturbing".
“The Communications Workers Union has members nationwide in the telecommunications and postal industry providing essential services that keep communities connected.
“We have a strong base and affinity in Portlaoise headed up by Ellen Moore, National Executive Council member.
“On becoming aware of the deeply disturbing dilapidated accommodation facilities at the school, the Union was anxious to assist the Teachers, parents and most particularly the children.”
The CWU financed the €63,500 for the purchase and modification of the bus from its Intellectual Disability Fund, which it has built up from members' contributions.
The General Secretary is Seán McDonagh.
“CWU is delighted to provide the bus so that it can make the children’s school time more memorable for the right reason. We have a proud tradition of providing such assistance both at home and abroad and on this occasion, we are very pleased to assist Kolbe special school”.
Kolbe school has described it as the "best news ever" when they received the keys.
Construction of a new school is promised to start in March according to Kolbe Principal Orlagh Mahon, with ESB Networks giving a recent positive update.
The school teaches and nurses 44 children with severe to profound special needs. They are waiting for over 20 years to be moved out of poorly insulated prefabs and into a promised purpose built building.