Ministry expects schools to reopen following earthquakes

Media release

23 July 2013

Ministry expects schools to reopen following earthquakes

The Ministry of Education expects schools in Wellington and Marlborough to be able to re-open as scheduled next week following Sunday’s earthquake.

Deputy Secretary, Regional Operations, Katrina Casey, says so far school buildings appear to have escaped the earthquake and aftershocks with little or no damage.

“That is really good news for the schools. Clearly we all want to be fully satisfied buildings are safe for students and staff before they return and we are being careful to make sure that’s the case.”

“We’re aware of two secondary schools in Wellington and a school in Marlborough that have some specific issues, but otherwise it’s been a matter of superficial or cosmetic damage.

“More detailed examinations at schools have begun today. But pending anything else being found or further significant events, we’d expect schools to be able to reopen next week for Term Three as planned.”

Ms Casey says multi-storey, heavy-roofed and masonry constructed school buildings in Wellington and Marlborough have been prioritised for structural assessments.

“Through those assessments we will be able to identify any issues that need to be addressed and will work closely with schools to make sure that happens as quickly as possible.”

Ms Casey says the Ministry has also contacted early childhood education providers in Marlborough and Wellington and hasn’t had any serious issues reported at this stage.

“Again, any problems with ECE providers are relatively minor fortunately and haven’t affected their operations.”

All Ministry offices closed yesterday to allow for engineering checks of the buildings have now reopened.

ENDS

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