€300k extension to Billis NS opened

There was a large turnout to witness the Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh, Ken Clarke, unveiled a new €300,000 two classroom extension to Billis National School on Friday last. Over €50,000 was raised locally by parents while the Department of Education and Science contributed €246,000 towards the development. The architects were Garvan/Hanley and the contact Charlie O'Reilly, who completed the work in less than a year. The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith, who attended the opening announce at the ceremony that a further grant of €10,000 for computer equipment for the two new classrooms has been approved by the government. Speaking at the ceremony, the Cavan/Monaghan TD, said that this was a very special day for the whole school community and a vote of confidence in its future. He said that it was his good fortune to be present at a number of ceremonies recently to mark major building projects in local schools. "This is an example of the government's continuing investment in the country's school infrastructure, which enhances the provision of an enriching and high quality education for our children. Despite the very serious pressure facing the public finances, the Government will be spending over €617 million on school building projects around the country this year," he said. Minister Smith also complimented the children on winning their second Green Flag which was a clear demonstration of their determination to make a better, cleaner environment for all. In conclusion, he complimented Principal Karen Divine and all her staff for the quality of education provided by the school. He acknowledged the central role of the Board of Management and Chairman Reverend Craig McCauley. He also paid a special tribute to the contribution of the parents, who through their collective efforts, had raised such a significant sum towards the new project. Along with Ms. Divine as principal of the 73-pupil school, other teachers include Betty Lundy, Michelle Hoban, Barbara Smith, Edna Smith and learning resource teacher Geraldine Donohoe.