STRONG REPRESENTATION

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 2, Issue 148, 17 April 1940, Page 5

STRONG REPRESENTATION

BOROUGH'S DECISION INADEQUACY OF SCHOOL ACCOMMODATION "DEPLORABLE CONDITIONS" It was agreed by the Borough Council at the meeting on Monday night that very strong representations should be made to the proper quarters regarding; the absolute inadequacy of the school accommodation at Whakatane. The matter was raised! by Cr Armstrong and was supported by His Worship the Mayor, who said that existing conditions were deplorable and the Education Department seemed to be doing nothing. Cr Armstrong said he would like to bring before the notice of the Council the inadequacy of the school accommodation. He thought that something should be done by the Council to further the interests of the school. "We should make strong, very strong, representations," said His Worship the Mayor, Mr B. S. Barry. "The School Committee has been working hard but does not seem to be able to get satisfaction. The conditions under which some of the teachers and pupils work is deplorable and parents feel very strongly about it. It is a growing town," continued His Worship, "and a larger school is needed but the Education Department seems to be doing nothing. We see Native Schools springing up in surrounding districts and it is time that Whakatanc had some consideration." Cr Canning spoke of the increasing population and said that a continuance would mean going back to the 'tent days.' The Matter Delayed. "The School Committee will appreciate the Council's help in the matter," said Cr Otley,. wlio said further that the Education Board hoped to be in a position to call tenders in a week or two. There had been a substantial increase in the attendance, said Cr Otley, the Primary roll having increased by 60 in the last two years and that of the Secondary department had been doubled. Cr Otley explained that the matter had been delayed for a considerable time awaiting the decision of the Minister concerning the consolidation of school's in the County. That consolidation was not to take place. "The Board has agreed to do what it can," said Cr Otley, "but the final say is with the Education Department in Wellington. Winter will be on in a few weeks and there seems to be little hope of accommodation being available this year. The Show shed at present in vise is not fit, but there is nothing else. The Committee will be pleased with the Coun cil's support in expediting the work" ! concluded Cr Otley.