Looking back at 2022: February - New school for Longford's Meán Scoil Mhuire

The school has been at capacity for some time and, with the reopening of schools during the pandemic, was forced to find additional space for classrooms via the Temperance Hall and the former Turner’s Printing premises on Earl Street.

School principal, Aoife Mulrennan told the Leader that the news was “a wonderful day in the history of our school” and that the new school will allow students to continue to excel in their studies.

“As a staff, we are delighted. A new school will bring comfort to our staff who have met outstanding standards in their delivery of curricula despite not having access to the range of equipment and facilities of a newer build,” she said.

Students and staff at Meán Scoil Mhuire began an active campaign advocating for a new school in January 2020 ahead of the general election in February that year, calling on all election candidates to pledge their support.

The current school building is over 135 years old and is no longer suitable for the needs of its students.

Ms Mulrennan also acknowledged the dedication of the Board of Management and previous Boards who continued the quest for a new school for many years. “We owe a significant debt of gratitude to Clare Ryan CEO of CEIST, the CEIST Board of Directors, John D’Arcy CEO of Educena and Joe Flaherty TD who have worked tirelessly on our behalf over the past number of years.”