Clwyd West AM Darren Millar has called upon decision makers at Conwy County Borough Council not to close schools in the area unless it has the agreement of parents, teachers and governors to do so.
His calls came in response to the publication of a report by Conwy Local Education Authority which outlines plans to modernise primary schools in the county borough.
The proposals include axing up to 17 schools, 7 of which are in Clwyd West.
Darren, who is also Shadow Minister for Communities and Local Government, warned last year that Labour-Plaid plans to close around 170 schools across Wales, to address falling pupil numbers and the public sector cash crisis, would take their toll in Conwy and Denbighshire.
Speaking today, Darren said:
“These proposals come as a direct result of the Labour-Plaid Assembly Government’s plans to close schools across Wales. The news will knock parents and hard-working teachers for six.
“There will now follow months and years of excruciating uncertainty for families and communities across Conwy as the local authority consults over its proposals. The education of our children and jobs of the professionals who teach them are at stake.
“Schools in Conwy that are able to deliver the national curriculum should not be forced to close unless there is agreement to do so from parents, teachers and governors.
“It is crucial that decision makers at Conwy listen carefully to the concerns of everyone affected by these plans and that the social contribution of schools to their local community, particularly those in rural areas, is not disregarded.
“I will ensure that the views of my constituents are not overlooked.
“We have already seen post offices, banks and telephone boxes shut their doors across North Wales over the past 18 months. School closures are yet another example of public services eroding under Labour and Plaid in Cardiff Bay.”
