Minister Naughton opens new facilities at Cork schools

Minister Hildegarde Naughton visited several schools across County Cork to engage with students and staff, highlighting the impact of recent educational investments. Her tour included the official opening of an extension at St Colman's Community College, Midleton, and updates on further projects in Fermoy and Kinsale.

Minister Hildegarde Naughton visited a number of schools throughout County Cork on Friday, 6 November 2026, to meet with students, educators, and school communities, witnessing the benefits of sustained investment in education.

Opening of new facilities at St Colman's Community College, Midleton

The Minister officially inaugurated the new extension at St Colman's Community College in Midleton, marking a significant milestone for the school and its wider community. She unveiled a commemorative plaque to celebrate the completion of these enhanced learning spaces, which reflect the Government’s dedication to providing modern and high-quality educational environments.

"Schools are central to their communities, fostering learning, growth, and potential while uniting people through shared experiences," Minister Naughton remarked. She congratulated the entire school community for their role in realising this project.

Progress at St Colman's College, Fermoy and other visits

During her visit to St Colman's College in Fermoy, the Minister received updates on a substantial extension project underway, intended to support the evolving needs of the student body. She acknowledged the importance of such investments for sustaining suitable facilities over the long term.

Further visits included Summercove National School in Kinsale, a longstanding community institution, where she praised the dedication of staff and the supportive learning environment. At Gaelscoil Chionn tSáile, Minister Naughton recognised the school's role in promoting the Irish language, emphasising its power to build community and foster pride and belonging.

Finally, at Kilbrittain National School, she acknowledged the commitment to inclusion and the vital work of teachers and staff, particularly in special classes providing every child the opportunity to thrive.

Acknowledgements

The Minister expressed gratitude to various school leaders and boards for facilitating her visits:

Louise Hallissey (Principal) and Sinéad de Bháill (Deputy Principal), along with Virgil Horgan (Board Chair) at Summercove National School
Sinéad Ní Mhurchú (Principal), Michelle Ní Riagáin (Deputy Principal), and Gabriel Ó Cathasaigh (Board Chair) at Gaelscoil Chionn tSáile
Karen O'Donovan (Principal), Niall Moynihan (Deputy Principal), and Imelda Hurley (Board Chair) at Kilbrittain National School

Minister Naughton's visits underscore the Government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and supporting school communities across Cork.