NEW NURSERY UNIT FOR ANNACLONE

Kevin Donaghy said he was glad the Education Minister Caitriona Ruane had decided to approve the application for a 26-place nursery unit, after it had originally been rejected by the department.

Although the original plan recommended that the unit be ready for September this year, the proposal was changed so that the unit will open at the beginning of the school year in 2011.

Mr Donaghy said, "We are delighted about this announcement. We're happy that the minister has seen the importance of nursery provision here."

The Education Minister said, "I believe in giving our children the best possible start to their education. Quality pre-school education can help the development of children and improve their social and communication skills.

"Children who attend St Colman's Primary School will now have the opportunity to benefit from the pre-school education that is their first step on the road as learners and citizens".

Elsewhere pupils and teachers at three schools in Banbridge were eagerly awaiting news this morning (Tuesday) from the Minister on which schools will be funded for badly needed rebuilds.

St Patrick's College, St Mary's Primary School and Abercorn Primary School have all been waiting for a new school building for a number of years.

Caitriona Ruane was due to make an announcement this morning on the 10 schools in Northern Ireland who will receive funding for rebuilds.

St Patrick's College principal Paul Carlin said, "We need a new school. A 50-year-old school can't provide a 21st century education."