Extended play area for Toomevara school

Cllr Michael Smith has welcomed an agreement between Tipperary County Council and the community of Toomevara that has paved the way for an astro-turf extended playground for the children attending SN Naomh Sheosamh.

“Conscious of the need for better outdoor exercise facilities for children, ever energetic and the superbly fit principal of the school George Frend harboured an ambitious plan,” Cllr Smith stated. “He knew that this very necessary development would never come to fruition without access to more land.

“During the local elections in 2019, an approach was made with a view to having my support and to drive the case for the extra land with the county council. When I explained the plans to the senior officials in the council, they were very supportive. All the necessary procedures and approvals were put in place and I was very privileged as Cathaoireach at the time to sign the order giving effect to the transfer of the required lands.

“Worrying statistics continue to emerge that demonstrate the level of obesity in children. A generation is growing up very familiar with every new gadget in the field of communications and technology, and spending extensive time on these devices. The importance, therefore, of timely provision of facilities which encourage our youth to engage in outdoor healthy pursuits is a worthwhile initiative.

“The project taken by the Principal, George Frend in Toomevara, St Joseph’s NS, together with an energetic group from the Board of Management and the positive response from the county council is most encouraging. It is also an example of the kind of achievements that are possible when we all work together and tear down barriers in order to progress everywhere we can,” Cllr Smith concluded.