Minister concerned about construction delays at Northshore Elementary

Education Minister John Ottenheimer expressed his concern regarding delays with construction at the Northshore Elementary School in Meadows, due to on-site protests.

"The final design for this project was approved under the previous administration following consultations and negotiations with the school board and with school councils," said Minister Ottenheimer. "This government inherited this project in its present form and also inherited the fiscal position with which we are faced. As a result of our fiscal reality, government had to be very strategic in the investments made this year, including education infrastructure. Many high priority projects were deferred. Government recognized the importance of moving forward with the extension and renovation at Northshore Elementary in Meadows to ensure students had a safe learning environment, and did so under the previously negotiated terms."

The minister noted that the District 3 School Board has, on many occasions in recent weeks, conveyed the wishes of the school councils. However, the department is firm in its position that the scope of the project will not be revisited. "It is important to move forward so that the project can be completed on schedule for the benefit of students involved. Changes in design structure and construction delays are costly, and with many priority areas in education infrastructure additional funding for this project simply does not exist," said the minister.

Government has allocated in excess of $3.5 million for this project which will see the K-6 school become a K-12 facility with a total enrolment of 600 students. Plans include enlarging the gymnasium, a new library/resource centre, a new lunchroom and other instructional spaces. The school will also include a challenging needs suite and a technology education suite. The school will be wheelchair accessible and have a paved parking lot.

Media contact: Lynn Salter, Communications, (709) 729-0048