Verona Murphy (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her positive response. The engagement between the Minister and me has always been positive and I am pleased with her response. I again extend the invitation to the Minister to visit New Ross so the principal of the school, Mr. Pat Rossiter, can have the opportunity to show her around. I was there for the delivery in 2019 of the grant of funding for the new build.

The enrolment of 397 students has increased to a current total of 403 students, although the school lost two students because of the lack of PE facilities. The fact remains that we have 403 students and need to cater for their physical education requirements. I am a mother and the Minister has been a principal as well as a mother, so I know she is aware that physical education must be balanced with academic education. In a time when we live in such mental health strife, and particularly with what students have been through in the past number of years because of Covid-19 and other factors, we must prioritise a build for the school. There are 403 students with a basic tarmac yard where they must carry out physical education exercises, and most of the time that is impossible because of the weather, particularly at this time of year.

The principal has stated:

CBS New Ross is the only secondary school in the county without a sports arena. Presently, PE is delivered outside on a non-suitable tarmac yard. Winter PE is regularly not an option for the students presently for 403 students. This is a major issue. The school board of management is extremely frustrated and annoyed with the situation and feel that in 2021 it is totally unacceptable for CBS New Ross to be without basic PE and sports indoor facilities.

I am nonetheless heartened by what the Minister has said today. If she can make her way to New Ross before Christmas, I would greatly appreciate it, as would the school principal.

See this speech in context