Labour TD Liz McManus,

has warned of the serious affects that the closure of libraries in two schools in Co. Wicklow may have.

The two schools that are under threat of having their libraries closed down by the Government are St. Kilian’s Community College in Bray and the Abbey Community College in Wicklow Town.

“I am deeply shocked at the news that the libraries in these two schools

will have to close because of the moratorium on recruiting librarians”,

said Deputy Liz McManus. “The Demonstration Library Projects were set up

in 22 schools around the country to ensure that young people are able to

read and to encourage a love of reading. They provide students with a

welcoming and safe environment where they can read, do homework, or prepare

for exams.

“An estimated €9m was spent on building and stocking these libraries and I

understand that €1m would keep the service going. This is a modest amount

of money for a significant return. These libraries operate in schools that

are located in disadvantaged areas and are specifically aimed at students

who are the most likely to leave school without formal education.

“The school library service has been tried and trust and has delivered for

many young people. Now it is being destroyed by this Fianna Fail

Government who are hell bent in creating economic havoc. They expect us to

shore up the banks while at the same time they are undermining the

potential of our young students attending 2nd-level schools.

“I am calling on Dick Roche as the only Government Minister in Co. Wicklow

to condemn this measure. It is quite clear that where there is strong

opposition in Fianna Fail that they are able to alter Government policy.

While Fianna Fail Deputies are arguing about stag hunting, there isn’t a

whimper about the loss of library services. It is time to stand up and be

counted. Pulling the plug at this stage is tantamount to educational

vandalism”, concluded Deputy McManus.

… ends …

Liz McManus 087-2357369