The first sod has been cut on the site of the new £3.5m accommodation at St Mary's primary school.

The new building, which will meet the educational needs of over 200 pupils in Portglenone and surrounding areas, is due to open in May 2010.

Speaking at the event, Education Minister Caitríona Ruane said: "The provision of this new accommodation, together with the facilities management and maintenance services for the next 25 years, means St Mary's will be well equipped to deliver the curriculum to many generations of pupils.

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"I would like to congratulate the principal, staff and Board of Governors here at St Mary's for all their hard work which has brought us to this stage of the project.

"Modern, fit for purpose buildings are essential for schools to educate their pupils in an environment which will prepare them for a post-primary setting," she said.

"Many people have worked hard to get this project up and running and today marks the culmination of years of work. I would like to congratulate all those involved."

(PR/JM)