SAD DAY FOR SIX SCHOOLS CLOSED BY LNP GREED

Media Release.

It is a sad day for six Queensland communities where schools will close forever today so the Newman Government can sell them to developers, says Opposition Deputy Leader Tim Mulherin.

“The last day of the school year is usually one of great excitement and anticipation, but for the pupils, parents and teachers at six of our schools the overwhelming emotions today are anger, frustration and loss,” said Mr Mulherin.

“Everyone associated with Fortitude Valley, Old Yarranlea, Toowoomba South, Stuart and Charlton state schools and Nyanda State High School, knows that they are victims of the LNP’s arrogance. They were closed without adequate consultation."

“They know that the decision to close their schools had nothing to do with future viability or educational outcomes. For most of the schools, the decision was based on real estate values."

“They know that the so-called consultation process was biased and unfair and that the deciding factor was the mighty dollar.”

Mr Mulherin said the schools that will close their doors for the final time this afternoon were on a secret list of 55 drawn up by the Newman Government.  The fate of 47 schools remains in doubt.

“Mr Langbroek has said that he will not close any more schools during this parliamentary term,” he said."

“But that is no comfort because the LNP will go to the next election with a hit list and he owes it to all Queenslanders to make that list public. Communities where the local school is under threat deserve to know."

“The Newman Government is committed to raise at least $30 million a year by selling school buildings and sports ovals,” he said.