Demonstrators who tried to save their school could only watch as it was removed of educational supplies
JUST DAYS after the decision was made to close Lisnaskea High School, the site was ‘gutted’, removing education supplies and equipment, sparking many associated with the school to ask the question why?
Workmen were at the school on Thursday removing whiteboards and other equipment and the work continued over the weekend in the wake of the closure. The Western Education and Library Board confirmed that it is currently relocating some furniture and equipment from Lisnaskea HS to Devenish College for use by the pupils.
Doreen Mullan, head of the Lisnaskea Action Group questioned why the school was being ‘gutted’ so quickly after the decision was made.
“Why has that happened so quickly? Is it to prevent us challenging the decision?” she pondered.
Doreen felt that the Minister was going to agree to the proposals of shared education and was ‘shocked’ when the decision was not made in their favour.
“Someone got to him and gave him false information about the numbers going into the school,” said Doreen.
“The local voice was not heard, I really thought the government would agree as part of their shared future plans. St Aidan’s and St Comhghall’s are now under threat.”
She and the Action Group have also expressed concerns that at present there are no transport arrangements in place for children who may be moving to school in Enniskillen. Referring to the school’s website Mrs Mullan pointed out that David Spence, the Chief Transport Officer for the Western Education and Library Board is to deal with any home to transport enquiries.
“That man knows nothing about the school even closing. In terms of the amalgamation the welfare of the children hasn’t come into it, we’re here for the children and we’re looking out for their best interests.”
In relation to September and the new school term Mrs Mullan admits that there remain reservations about the move to Enniskillen, which have not been eased by those at Devenish College.
“No one from Devenish has approached us and encouraged us to come to the school. Why is that? We haven’t been fully supported in making the move.”
Alex Baird, Chairman of Devenish College Board of Governors explained that an open evening has previously been held for prospective guardians and parents from prospective feeder primary schools as well as for those at Lisnaskea High School. He also explained about a welcome event held yesterday again facilitating parents, guardians and pupils to come to the new school.
“Once the possibility of amalgamation was mooted we took steps to bring over feeder school parents, guardians and pupils along with those as Lisnaskea. All parents and guardians at Lisnaskea have also been written to,” explained Alex.
The WELB is progressing an Economic Appraisal for the new build school. The amalgamated school will be named Devenish College. The name and uniform of the school will be subject to review as the new build school is planned. Lisnaskea HS Year 11 pupils will be continue their programme of study and will be educated within their current year group with their current staff, where physically possible.
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