Education Minister, John O’Dowd, has attended the official opening of a new £500,000 refurbishment at Ballyoran Primary School in Portadown.

During the event Minister O'Dowd unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion and a blessing was carried out by Parish Priest, Fr Michael O’Dwyer. The works which commenced in November 2011 included the refurbishment of the entrance area, the provision of a new library and new toilet facilities as well as additional resource and storage space. The refurbishment also involved the relocation of the nursery unit to allow it to become a more integral part of the main school building.

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Following a tour of the school the Minister said: "It is a pleasure to be in Ballyoran Primary School today to celebrate the completion of their £500,000 refurbishment project. I had previously visited the school in October last year just before the refurbishment works kicked off so I can clearly see just how much of an impact these improvements have made."

The Minister also commented on the music and dance performance provided by the pupils: "As I visit schools across the north I am continually amazed by the fantastic talent displayed by our children and young people. That talent has been in evidence yet again here today at Ballyoran and I would like to thank the school choir, the instrumental group, the Irish dancers and all the children for their great welcome and the entertainment they have provided."

(CD)