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In the Newfoundland Supreme Court today, Mr. Justice Leo Barry rendered his decision on an application by the Pentecostal Assemblies of Newfoundland and representatives of the Roman Catholic Church for an injunction to stop school boards from implementing decisions with respect to school designations and school closures.

In a lengthy and complex decision, Justice Barry granted an injunction that would substantially prevent the school boards from proceeding with the decisions they have made for the 1997/98 school year regarding the designation and closure of schools.

Roger Grimes, Minister of Education, said that this decision will delay the implementation of reforms to the province's schools. However, government remains committed to education reforms and to the implementation of the recommendations of the Williams' Royal Commission which were presented to government in March 1992.

Mr. Grimes said: "Government will need to take some time to consult with legal advisors and fully evaluate the implications of this decision. It is complicated and requires thorough legal analysis. Government will also take the opportunity to consult with key stakeholders in education both to determine how this order can be implemented, and to seek cooperation in doing so in order to provide the least possible amount of disruption in the school system."

Meanwhile, Mr. Grimes has instructed officials to deal immediately with this urgent matter, and to consider all options, including an appeal of Justice Barry's decision.

Contact: Carl Cooper, (709) 729-5040.