The following statement was issued today by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Education.

“As stated in court this morning, I am pleased to confirm that we have been able to reach an agreement-in-principle with the Roman Catholic Episcopal Corporation of St. John’s for the purchase by the Provincial Government of all remaining interests in schools and school lands formerly held by the corporation.

This agreement-in-principle will have the Provincial Government purchase all remaining interests in 32 schools on the Avalon and Burin Peninsulas for a cost of $13 million. Further details will be released when the agreement is finalized.

This is a significant step that protects education infrastructure in these areas and removes the uncertainties, which had been caused by the insolvency processes of the Roman Catholic Episcopal Corporation of St. John’s. It is important to note there will be no disruption to school programming for students, parents, teachers and staff during this period of transition.”

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