Irish Minister for Lifelong Learning, Seán Haughey has opened a new state of the art school building at St Mary's National School, Ballyhack, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny.

The new facilities, which comprise 16 new classrooms and ancillary accommodation, was built at a cost of €4.5million and funded by the Department of Education and Skills.

The new school came about as a result of the amalgamation of the Convent of Mercy Primary School and Ladywell Boys' National School.

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Speaking at the opening, Minister Haughey said: "I would like to pay tribute to each and every one involved and acknowledge the vision and determination of the school management, the Principal Margaret Walsh, staff and parents who worked so hard to bring this wonderful project to completion.

"The benefits of this new school will be enjoyed, not only by the pupils and staff of the school, but by the whole community for many years to come.

"The significant capital outlay for the project at St. Mary’s demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing our school buildings and facilities," he added.

Since 2007 over €21m has been invested by the Government in primary school building projects in Kilkenny.

(NS/GK)