The community in Bonmahon met last week to support the Knockmahon National School enrolment campaign.

The meeting focused on the need to increase student numbers for next year. Parents, residents and public representatives attended to show support for the school.

Long-term rural challenges highlighted

Councillor Catherine Burke helped organise the event. She said Knockmahon faces the same pressures as many rural areas. Limited infrastructure and a lack of new housing have reduced local population growth.

She stressed that, despite these issues, Knockmahon National School remains a strong choice for families.

Councillor Burke noted that the school opened in 1855. She described it as “a legacy of learning”, and said the meeting aimed to “keep the legacy alive.” She urged parents to consider enrolling their children in the school.

Enrolment Needs

Principal Bernadette Murphy said the school has launched a community-wide outreach drive.

Leaflets are being delivered across the Copper Coast to raise awareness.

Mrs Murphy added “we need to have sixteen students on our books, by February at the latest”.

This will guarantee a 2 teacher school and a future going forward. That is according to the staffing circular that was issued last February. It is dependant also on the rules that come out in the next staffing circular which is due early February.

The principal said Knockmahon is “not just a school, but a family.” She said the staff remain fully committed to its future.

Rural services need support

Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness attended the meeting. As Rural Affairs spokesperson, Deputy McGuinness said local services are vital for rural towns.

He said communities struggle when post offices, garda stations or schools decline. He stressed the importance of protecting these services.

Deputy McGuinness said the problems faced by Knockmahon are emblematic of issues faced across Rural Ireland that Government needs to focus more on rural areas.

Deputy McGuinness said he heard the concerns expressed at the event and said rural schools need more flexibility than urban schools.

He confirmed he will raise the matter in the Dáil, and voiced his support for the Knockmahon National School enrolment campaign and its message to local families.

Focus on the future of the school

Parents and staff want families to consider Knockmahon National School for the year ahead. They hope the enrolment drive will secure the required numbers.

The aim is to protect teacher levels and support local education. Community members left with a clear message: the Knockmahon National School enrolment campaign is key to the school’s future.

For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.