THE consultation period for St. Mary’s High School, Brollagh has been extended until October 26.

The news came during a meeting organised by First Minister and Fermanagh South Tyrone MLA Arlene Foster on Friday, and included Department of Education officials, the St. Mary’s High School Parents Action Group, and DUP Erne North Councillor, Deborah Erskine.

St. Mary’s High School Parents Action Group said: “We welcomed the opportunity to put forward our reasons for the development proposal, which would see St. Mary’s High School transform to Integrated status.

“Throughout this process we have continued to work towards what is best for the pupils and the future of the school.

“We believe this development proposal will immensely boost the school and community, if successful.

“It was truly great news to hear that the consultation period has now been extended until the end of October. This will give others an opportunity who may have missed Friday’s deadline to make their case.”

First Minister and Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Arlene Foster thanked the Department of Education for facilitating the virtual meeting, which was hugely beneficial to set out the reasons behind the proposal.

Mrs. Foster said: “Schools are deeply embedded in rural communities and there is a real strength of feeling that any removal of services adversely affects the area.

“This is a courageous development proposal, which went to consultation during difficult circumstances due to Covid-19.

“It is to be welcomed that the opportunity to submit more views on the proposal will now be allowed.”

Erne North Councillor Deborah Erskine, who also attended the meeting, added: “This area suffers from deprivation and it’s vital that there is easy access to good education in the area. There must be no barrier to a child reaching their potential.

“St. Mary’s Action Group have been encouraging people to respond to the consultation, and they are to be commended. During Covid-19, when people were on lockdown, it made their job difficult.

“This extension is very welcome and will greatly help this campaign for Brollagh.”