Rural community loses its national school
Sadness and anger has been voiced over a decision to close a primary school in the North Tipperary parish of Borrisokane.
In a statement, the Killaloe Diocesan Office announced that Saint Joseph’s National School in Aglish is to close just before the start of the new school year in the autumn.
The office in its statement said: “The Patron of Saint Joseph’s National School, Aglish, Roscrea, Bishop Fintan Monahan, has decided that this primary school will close with effect from August 31 2025.
“His decision has been arrived at following consultation with the Department of Education and Science.
“Bishop Monahan understands that this decision will undoubtedly be a source of sadness for school staff, and the wider school and parish community.”
A decline in the number of pupils was the reason cited by the bishop for his decision to close the school.
The statement added: “Due to the significant reduction in the school’s enrolment over the past few years, and the fact that there are now no pupils enrolled for September 2025, Bishop Monahan no longer believes that it is a viable option to keep the school open, in terms of its functioning as a mainstream primary school.”
Parents of children in the school and others expressed their disappointment and anger on social media.
One parent, a mother, said it was a pity that the bishop or anyone in his office or the Department of Education or local political representatives who were contacted wouldn't talk or engage with a number of concerned parents who had removed their children from the school.
She said the news of the closure was heartbreaking for some of the staff who had served a long time in the school.
DEVASTATING NEWS
Another person said: “So sad and devastating for locals who attended the school themselves and always envisaged their children and grandchildren continuing with the tradition. Shame on the powers that be on actually letting this happen.”
“This is so sad to read,” wrote another after learning of the news. “To the kids left I wish them well moving to new schools and to the parents who fought hard to keep it open, I'm sorry it didn't work.”
One woman wrote: “What a terrible thing to happen in our little village. My husband our three children all educated here, and each one of them with nothing only happy memories. Sad that no one held accountable for the closure of a lovely school only opened in 1966.”
Another wrote of the “lovely memories” he and others had of the school and expressed concerns for pupils who now have to find an alternative school. “It is a lovely school and a lovely space. There is no room in schools in many towns for children and so many children with additional needs crying out for a school space. To close a school is beyond belief. Well done to all who tried to keep it open.”