This article is from page 21 of the 2011-10-25 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 21 JPG
OVER 600 children had to leave school early on Friday after problems emerged with a “misfiring oil burner” at Ennis National School.
The school was temporarily closed for a period on the day due to concerns over the school’s 38-year-old heating system.
An inspection of air quality carried out on Friday revealed no abnormal levels of dioxins. Parents were informed by text of the issue at around 11am and were asked to collect children.
The school has apologised to parents and pupils for any inconvenience caused.
A statement posted on the school’s website read, “Ennis National School apologises for any inconvenience caused to pupils, parents and staff as a result of the temporary closure of the school today. This action was taken due to concerns about a misfiring oil burner. Checks taken this afternoon by an independent consultant, have verified that the air quality within the school is as normal.”
The statement continued, “Depart- ment of Education and Science officials have confirmed that funding will be provided to replace the oil burner during the mid-term break.”
The school re-opened as normal yesterday. Deputy principal Tom Glynn said electric and gas heaters were being used to provide heat in the building.
He said the school hoped to have a new boiler installed after the upcoming mid term break. He explained that air quality tests had returned a “perfect reading” and that the decision to close the school was taken in the interest of health and safety. “With something like an oil fire burner you can’t take any chances,” he added.
Mr Glynn said the school has car ried out remedial work on the burner, which was installed at the school in 1973.
He said there have been no reports of injury or ill health since Friday. “We’ve had no complaints from anybody,” he added.
The school is due to move from its present location on Kilrush Road to a new site at Ashline.
Mr Glynn said the school’s board of management hope to receive the green light from the Department of Education and Skills in November to begin the tendering process. It is anticipated that work would then begin in February and be completed within 18 months.
In addition to 32 classrooms, the building will include rooms for a reading class, special education teachers and library.
The building will have an energy rating and a level of disability access, which is ahead of current regulations. Facilities for sport will include a full-size sports hall with dressing rooms and a playing pitch.