December 18th 2013
Dear Parents and Staff,
No doubt you are wondering how our opposition to the N28 proposed road changes are progressing. Following our meeting on Tuesday December 3rd in Ringaskiddy, it was planned to meet with Minister Simon Coveney and all local TDs last Monday night. Due to the unavailability of the Minister and several of the TDs that meeting was deferred as communicated to you by text. Instead, a delegation of school and local community representatives met with TD Michael McGrath and TD Jerry Buttimer here in school on the night. Following that positive meeting, TD Jerry Buttimer has indicated that he will submit an objection on our behalf and will also speak to other highly influential party colleagues. TD Michael McGrath has already submitted such an objection to the County Council on our behalf.
This morning, a number of community representatives met with Noel Murtagh, (Cork County Council/National Roads Authority) to debate the planned proposals. Following a frank and detailed exchange of viewpoints, we are at least confident that the County Council are now very aware of our concerns. The concerns we expressed were on behalf of the local community and not just from our school’s perspective.
From here, we intend to continue with our canvassing of the other TDs and Minister Coveney and expect to meet with them early in the New Year. It is vital to note that despite the expressed support of all councillors and several TDs that we cannot afford to be complacent with regard to our campaign of objection. It is obvious that we are up against highly influential and vested interested parties in this project, who are determined to proceed despite the impact it will have on our community. Therefore, I urge you again to lodge objections to The Administrative Officer, Cork County Council, National Roads Office, Richmond, Glanmire, Co. Cork. on or before 5pm on Monday 13th January, 2014.
As previously indicated, objections must be personalised and not a standard type letter as these will be logged as one complaint only. You can use points from the Engineers Report that was sent home already. Likewise, further information may be accessed through the following website www.ringaskiddyanddistrict.wordpress.com When we return to school on January 6th we will update you on our progress and details of any proposed public meetings.
Wishing you a very Happy and Safe Christmas,
__________________________________________
David Nolan and all in Shanbally NS
PS Junior, Seniors and siblings finish at 11.45am and everyone else at 12noon SHARP on Friday.