A chapter in Donegal’s education system came to an end today when the key was finally turned on one of the country’s smallest schools for the very last time.
Mín na Manrach National school which has been open 101 years, today closed its doors for the last time.
The school is situated in the hills outside Crolly village and is a Gaeltacht school.
The 5 pupils, all girls, and their principal Bernie Ní Dhuibhir gathered with members of the local community and parents to bid farewell to their school.
Last year the school authorities were informed that due to falling numbers they would have to close the school.
The pupils will now attend other schools, most likely within the parish of Dungloe, from September onwards.
The principal said today that it was a very sad day for all concerned and that the policy of closing schools would be devastating to the Irish language. Parents today also voiced their disappointment at the Government’s decision.
Many were in tears as they spoke of their love of the school and close connection with it.
Several had attended the school themselves as children, and said the area would now have no focal point once the doors were locked this evening.
In 1980 the school was threatened with closure, however a group of parents succeeded in reversing that decision.
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