The new school and community centre will replace the temporary facility now in place on the DeBlois Road in Tignish.

Minister Dover said the school planning committee was asked to explore every possible option for a permanent facility for the students. These options included using an existing facility, adding on to an existing facility, or building a new school. “We appreciate the excellent work of the committee and we are pleased to respond positively to their recommendation which was to build a new school,” said Minister Dover.

The committee recommended that a new school be constructed because there were no major cost savings to be found by using an existing facility or attaching to one. In addition, they found that it was difficult to find adequate green space and a separate location that would meet the principles of French first language education which are to totally immerse students in the French language and culture.

“The new school will accommodate 100 students compared to the existing facility which houses 43 students. It will be designed so that space can be added as enrolments increase.”

Honourable Gail Shea said, “I am pleased that we are able to fulfill our commitment to the French community by building a new school to promote learning in the French language.” The Minister advised that negotiations with the federal government will begin as soon as possible to secure federal funding for a community component of the facility to preserve and promote the French culture in West Prince.

Minister Dover said, following consultations with the school planning committee, the concept and detail design will be finalized and construction will begin as soon as possible. Suitable land is available for purchase close to the existing school.