Government has approved a new policy which gives priority to communities that express interest in taking ownership of the school properties affected by recent school closures.
In support of this decision, communities will be eligible to access provincial funding to assist them in developing new uses for the properties.
“Government is acutely aware that these properties have been important components in Island communities,” said Premier Robert Ghiz. “It is our hope that, by allowing the communities to take ownership of these properties, and by giving access to financial assistance in so doing, these properties will continue to serve as community focal points well into the future. Government is very hopeful that each community will be able to put its own unique stamp on the available facilities.”
In the absence of interest by a community, the Province will call for proposals from non-profit groups in the area served by the former school.
Government has already been approached by representatives from some of the affected communities expressing interest in acquiring the schools that were recently closed.
“I believe that this is an important decision on the part of Government in showing respect for and commitment to rural Prince Edward Island,” said Buck Watts, MLA for District 8 Tracadie-Hillsborough Park. “I know that Grand Tracadie Elementary, for example, remains an important institution to many of my constituents, and I am encouraged that the community now has the opportunity to acquire the building for other community purposes.”
The Department of Transportation and Public Works will be responsible for the administration of this new policy.