Walwyn talks upgrade – Funding still uncertain

Minister of Education Myron Walwyn said he has had discussions with the leadership of H Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) regarding the need for capital works to be undertaken to – among other things – help resolve the longstanding issue of mold at the government-owned educational institution.

The minister, however, has not given any clear indication as to whether enough funds are available to undertake the work, or when it will commence.

Responding to questions posed in the House of Assembly yesterday by Leader of the Opposition Andrew Fahie, the minister said: “As the member is aware, H Lavity Stoutt Community College is a statutory board. There was $8 million allocated in the 2017 budget for the college and, as such, capital works will not be under the Ministry [of Education].”

“HLSCC has a separate legal board that governs its affairs. Therefore, capital work for that entity is a matter for them to consider,” the education minister further said.

“I am aware that works need to be done at HLSCC and I’ve had discussions to this effect with the Chairman [of the HLSCC Board of Governors Dr Charles Wheatley], and we are looking forward to addressing the concerns. The discussion surrounded them doing some work with some issues surrounding mould and some work to the physical plant.”