Crawford demands debate on school mergers

Opposition Spokesman on Education and Early Childhood Damion Crawford is demanding a parliamentary debate on the Government’s plans to merge and close schools, warning that the changes must not come at the expense of children’s constitutional right to access primary education.

Crawford’s call comes amid a growing push by the Ministry of Education to consolidate schools across the island, including the merger of Giddy Hall Primary and Middle Quarters Primary in St Elizabeth, as well as the recent merger of Hydel High School and Cumberland High School in St Catherine.

Education Minister Senator Dana Morris Dixon disclosed earlier this week that the Government is considering closing and merging more schools as it seeks to maximise the use of resources and existing infrastructure.