Education Minister, John O'Dowd, has cut the first sod at the site of the new Dromore Central Primary School.

The Department of Education has invested over £16million to bring the new school building to fruition.

Speaking at the Mossvale Road site, the Minister said: "I am delighted to be here to officially mark the beginning of construction of the new school. Dromore Central is one of 40 schools which were given the go-ahead to proceed as part of an overall capital investment of approximately £350million.

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"Since becoming Education Minister I have visited schools in every sector of education provision and I am very aware of the issues they face. I understand there is a need for investment across the schools estate and that is why I established the School Enhancement Programme (SEP). Investment under SEP is worth a potential £134million and will ensure that schools benefit from refurbishment or extension projects valued between £500,000 and £4million."

In addition to the major capital investment programme, there is ongoing investment in the schools estate under the minor works scheme.

(CD/MH)