School closure plans binned - for now at least
PROPOSALS to close and merge primary schools across the district have been BINNED — at least for the time being.
As reported in last week's Herald, St Joseph's in Milngavie was targeted for closure in a move condemned by opposition councillors for its secrecy.
Angry councillors learned on the Thursday night of the last bank holiday weekend that proposals for the closure/merge of eight primary schools in the district was to be put before them the following week.
Councillor Charles Kennedy was furious at the timing which meant head teachers and parents were in the dark about the proposals.
He and SNP group leader Ian Mackay said it was outrageous that education convener Una Walker and an education official had attended an award ceremony at St Joseph's the day before the announcement — and mentioned nothing of the proposal to the head teacher.
In defence, Councillor Walker said she hadn't been aware that following a review of the council's school estate, education officials were to suggest the school closures.
This was an 'astonishing admission', according to Councillor Mackay, who blasted: "If, in fact, she did not know what the proposals were until last week you have to ask the question why did she not make it her business to know? What is she doing? Certainly not convening education in East Dunbartonshire.
"The whole proposal was a disgrace — It took no account of community or educational achievement and was merely based on financial considerations and I'm very pleased it was defeated."
Although the coalition Tory/Labour administration did not agree the recommendations, which were simply noted, council leader Rhonnda Geekie insisted the proposal not to spend money on half empty buildings remained sound.
She said choosing which schools were to close had not been easy for officials and explained: "We agreed that any capital receipts could be re-invested in the remaining buildings — fewer buildings would also allow improved maintenance in those remaining.
"We must consider what is best for the future of our children in terms of their education. Every penny we save this year can avoid closures of valuable services next year."
This sent alarm bells ringing for MSP Des McNulty who is bitterly opposed to the closure proposals. He said: "I will be seeking confirmation from Councillor Geekie that the proposals have been buried for good.
"Parents considering where to send their children will want to know that St Joseph's has a long term future and I will keep up pressure on the administration to see that it does."
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Weather for Milngavie
Wednesday 23 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 13 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: East
