Parents' anger over infestation at school
EXTERMINATORS TRY TO DEAL WITH RATS AND MICE
Exterminators are visiting Bennekerry NS every other day in a bid to address the problem.
PARENTS OF pupils at a Carlow primary school say they are seriously concerned over a rat infestation at the school.
Exterminators have been at Bennekerry NS on a constant basis to try and rid the school of rats and mice and children arrived home during the week with a letter informing parents of the problem.
Principal Pauline Barrett said the school is working on a permanent basis to eradicate the rodents.
'Everything possible is being done,' she said. 'It is an old school. We have had rats here before down through the years and it has been tended to. We let the parents know as a matter of courtesy.'
The parents were informed that, despite regular visits from a pest control company, there is evidence of rats and mice still in the school.
In a newsletter they were told that the school is doing its utmost to control the situation and stressed the importance of hand washing before eating, lunches in lunch boxes and bringing all leftover lunch home.
They were informed also that desks are being sprayed regularly with anti-bacterial spray.
Ms Barrett said that the school has had pest controllers in every other day.
'Under health and safety we are obliged to tell the parents,' she added. 'We are taking all precautions and are doing all we can.'
A number of parents from Bennekerry NS contacted The
Carlow People to complain about the situation.
'A rat infestation is a very worrying problem,' said one angry mother.
'It's not safe and something has to be done.'
The board of management at Bennekerry NS is in talks with the Department of Education for a new school.
'Talks now are at a very sensitive stage,' she added. 'We are in negotiations with the department for a new school.'
- Lynda CONNOLLY
