Parents keep children at home

Parents yesterday withdrew their children from a Co Tipperary primary school because they say the conditions are appalling and…

Parents yesterday withdrew their children from a Co Tipperary primary school because they say the conditions are appalling and the health of pupils could be in danger.

According to the parent's association at Bishop Harty National School in Ballinree, the school building, dating from 1903, has a leaking roof, dampness in the walls, only an outdoor tap, an inadequate heating system and only outside toilets.

Ms Anne Hall, secretary of the parents' association, said all pupils stayed away from school in protest at the "appalling" conditions. She said pupils with asthma and bronchial conditions were being put at risk in cold, damp classrooms.

The Department of Education has offered the parents and board of management a prefabricated classroom, but Ms Hall said parents and teachers wanted a new building. There are three teachers in the school and about 60 pupils. Ms Hall said the teachers supported the action and were deeply unhappy at the conditions. She said the parents withdrew their children yesterday as a first step, but their action could escalate.