Concern about radon gas levels and possible fire hazards at a national school in Co Donegal has prompted parents to withdraw 65 children from classes.
They mounted a protest outside Loughanure National School yesterday and vowed not to let their children return until they get assurances from the Department of Education that alternative accommodation can be found while works are carried out to the 74-year-old building.
A survey in 1999 revealed that radon gas levels were above the recognised safe limits. The Health and Safety Authority has warned that children were in rooms filled with radon in which windows cannot be opened.
Parents are concerned that the radon gas levels are increasing and intend to contact the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland about getting the school inspected again.
"On top of this, there is only one way in and out of the building as the second exit is blocked up and a hallway is used as an office. The wooden windows in the school are of the old rope type and cannot be opened. We believe it is an unsafe and unhealthy premises," said Ms Mary Gillespie, a member of the parents' committee. They are contacting the local fire authority and health and safety officials in their attempt to get a three-classroom school for the 65 pupils.
Budget constraints mean that the Department cannot solve the problem yet, the Department said. It was continuing to monitor radon levels, which were in safe limits.
But the Labour Party education spokesperson, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, has called for immediate action.
The situation in Loughanure was one of the worst examples of the ongoing saga of appalling conditions in Irish schools, she said.
The Irish National Teachers Organisation said last night that no one should be surprised the parents decided to withdraw their children from their radon-polluted school.
Mr John Carr, general secretary, said the unanimous agreement of parents to withdraw all 65 pupils from the school is a signal to the Department of Education and Science that patience on this matter is wearing thin.
"Children and teachers are entitled to safe and hygienic working conditions," he said.
The school is substandard in many other ways: the children's classrooms are 50 per cent smaller than the recommended size, he said.