De Lisle delight as Herm School requete is up for next debate
THE deputy behind the requete into Herm school has said he is delighted that room has been made for it to be discussed at the next States meeting.
David De Lisle said that the decision meant there would be an early debate on 6 September to overturn Education, Sport & Culture’s decision to close the primary educational facilities for all children living on Herm.
‘This decision undermines the very fabric of the community and the sustainability of operational businesses on Herm,’ he said.
‘Closure of the school denies the parents who have chosen to live and work on Herm the right to educate their children on the island.
‘I’m delighted this date has been consented to, so that the debate will occur right at the beginning of the school term, as requetes generally take two or three months to get through.’
The seven signatories to the requete included four former members of ESC.
Deputy De Lisle said that most of the signatories had gone to him directly to sign the requete as they felt the issue was of imminent concern.
‘The members listed requested that the proposition be dealt with on 6 September because of the travel logistics the children are facing. That this has been pushed through with undue haste shows that outside the signatories, members have some concerns.
‘My wish is that all members of the States Assembly join together to amend the action of ESC and reinstate the Herm School as soon as possible.’
The school was closed at the end of last term for a one-year trial, with the pupils travelling to Vauvert School every day by boat.
ESC is now in discussion with P&R regarding its response to the requete.
