Construction work has started to extend an Irish school in Co Antrim.

The £15.5 million capital works project at Coláiste Feirste includes new teaching facilities as well as a Sports Hall, changing rooms, a gym, synthetic training area, 3G Gaelic Pitch and five courts.

Education Minister John O;Dowd said:"The Irish medium education sector has been growing steadily over the last number of years. With that growth comes the need for investment and development. This historic school building will benefit from the new facilities and the learning environment will be greatly improved.

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"Ongoing investment in our schools estate is essential if we are to continue to provide a quality education."

Seán Mistéil, Chairperson of Coláiste Feirste said: "This is not just an a major capital investment, it is an investment in the potential of the 600 pupils currently attending the school and the thousands who will continue their educational journey in Coláiste Feirste in the coming years."

(CD/MH)