20 October 2021
Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe, T.D. opens new playground at St. Joseph’s Co-ed. Primary School, East Wall
Local school community benefits from Dublin Port’s MP2 Project
Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe, T.D., has today officially opened a new state-of-the-art playground for the 240 pupils of St. Joseph’s Co-ed. Primary School in Dublin’s East Wall.
This is the first time in more than 10 years that the school has been able to carry out a major upgrade on the senior playground for pupils at the 62-year old school, which is located just 10 minutes from Dublin Port. The playground is part of the local community benefit from Dublin Port’s MP2 Project.
The new facilities bring to life what was once a large open space on the senior playground in the school grounds. In its place is a new multi-purpose all-weather pitch that is wheelchair accessible, with equipment to cater for both team sports and individual play. Basketball, football, gymnastics bars, a swing, roundabout and boxing bags have all been incorporated into the new design, finished in a cushioned surface.
Paschal Donohoe, Minister for Finance and T.D. for Dublin Central, who unveiled a plaque at the school, said: “I am delighted to open the new playground at St. Joseph’s Co-Ed Primary School in East Wall. My compliments go to the entire school team who have created a vibrant outdoor space where pupils of all ages and abilities can learn and play. Recreation is such an important part of the school experience, supporting children’s development and the wellbeing of the wider community. I have no doubt that the playground will be a huge hit with the boys and girls who returned to school in September to discover their school yard transformed.”
Maureen O’Sullivan, Chairperson of St. Joseph’s Co-Ed Primary School in East Wall, said; “The entire school community is excited to celebrate the opening of the new playground with Minister Donohoe as guest of honour. A special word of thanks goes to Dublin Port Company whose ongoing support has been such a positive in the lives of our community. It means so much to provide the pupils with a dedicated and modern space designed to encourage healthy, active lifestyles from a young age.”
Eamonn O’Reilly, Chief Executive, Dublin Port Company, said; “Dublin Port’s Masterplan includes a commitment to sustainable economic development in ways that improve quality of life for the port’s communities. Our MP2 Project to develop part of the north port area prioritised local education as a community gain, and the school then identified a real need for modern playground facilities. It’s wonderful to see the playground come to fruition and finished to such a high standard. I have no doubt the benefits will be enjoyed by all at St. Joseph’s for generations to come.”