A ceiling collapsed in toilets used by young pupils at St Joseph’s Primary School in Galbally, Tyrone. No one was injured in the incident.

Hugh Meenagh, headmaster at the school, stated that the 55-year-old building shows signs of damp and leaks. He expressed concern that a repeat incident could injure a child. The school requires extensive maintenance and a new build on a new site, according to Mr Meenagh.

St Joseph’s Primary School formed from the amalgamation of three rural schools over 50 years ago. Enrolment has grown from 150 pupils to more than 230.

The school was considered for major capital investment in 2020. No developments have occurred since then. Mr Meenagh noted ongoing road safety issues at the Lurgylea Road entrance.

Mid-Ulster MLA Linda Dillon raised the school's concerns at Stormont last week. She called on Education Minister Paul Givan to visit and observe the lack of outdoor space.

Minister Givan responded that he shares the frustration of the Galbally school community. He said the Department of Education is underfunded and handles emergency responses. Givan submitted a bid for major capital schemes as part of the budget process and hopes to advance pre-tender stage projects to construction if funding increases.