Gort Community School has received funding approval to commission a design team for a €4.1 million project to build a wide range of additional classrooms and facilities.

This is a major move forward for the school’s expansion plans.

The school has received approval to design and plan six new classrooms, a science lab and prep area, one Special Education Teaching room, one technical graphics room and three Special Education Needs base rooms, including one prefab replacement.

The school was originally designed for 700 students but the expansion project will allow it to accommodate 1,000 students.

I want to congratulate the Principal and Secretary to the Board of Management, Brian Crossan, the Board of Management, parents and staff who have worked so hard on this project.

I am also delighted that my colleague, the Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh and his Department have responded so positively to the needs of the school, the students and the parents.