(May 19, 2023, St. John’s) – Barry Petten, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister of Education and MHA for Conception Bay South, is calling upon the Liberal Government to order a complete health and safety inspection into Frank Roberts Junior High.

Petten was shocked by recent comments made by the Liberal Government and English School District that dismissed concerns raised by parents. Petten says he’s been raising the concerns of parents about the condition of the school for years.

“Unlike the Minister and Mr. Hall, I attended the rally yesterday where hundreds of students and parents rallied to draw attention to poor conditions at the school. The issues are many: Overcrowding, poor air quality, mould, no cafeteria, and rats,” said Petten.

“If there are no issues, as the Minister says, let’s bring in an outside, independent company to do a thorough assessment of the school and release the results publicly.”

Petten noted parents and teachers have complained that inspections completed recently were superficial “walkthroughs” that did not investigate specific issues that have been raised.

Frank Roberts is a Grade 7-9 school with over 650 kids jammed in a building constructed in the 1960s. Small rooms have up to 34 children in some classes.

“I am, again, calling on the Government to bring in an outside, independent company to investigate and report publicly on these issues. This must include a structural and environmental assessment of the building guided by direction from staff and the school council,” said Petten.

“While the Minister dismisses these concerns, I believe they must be taken seriously. The children and families who rely on Frank Roberts Junior High deserve to be taken seriously and have their concerns addressed.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca