The Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education, today assured residents of the Corner Brook area that work on the redevelopment of Herdman Collegiate is progressing, and barring unforeseen circumstances, the Department of Education still anticipates an opening date of January 2009.

"In June 2007 we announced the beginning of phase III of the redevelopment project," said Minister Burke. "This phase covers the majority of the new construction component of the project and work is ongoing. In fact, more than 50 tradespeople are currently on-site, with more expected next week."

Minister Burke said the bulk of the work being done at this time is primarily in the interior of the building, with everything from the installation of ventilation duct work and gyproc, to electrical and plumbing upgrades. The minister noted that consultations are being held on a regular basis between contractors, district and departmental staff to monitor and report on the progress of the project.

The redeveloped high school, valued at $18.1 million, will include skilled trades suites, a quality physical education facility and fitness centre, and cafeteria facilities to reflect the Provincial Government�s focus on healthy living and physical activity.

Work on the high school is one example of the Provincial Government�s $49 million commitment this year to school repair, maintenance and capital construction. Since 2004, approximately $111 million has been allocated for repairs and maintenance to schools

"The Williams Government, probably more than any other government in the history of this province, has made the conditions and the safety and maintenance of our schools a priority," said Minister Burke. "We have also demonstrated a commitment to improved curriculum, complete with relevant and interesting learning resources. With an investment of more than $1 billion in education, we are laying the foundation upon which our students� success will be based."

-30-

Media contact:
Jacquelyn Howard
Director of Communications
Department of Education
709-729-0048, 689-2624
jacquelynhoward@gov.nl.ca

2008 04 09                                                    9:50 a.m.