libs plan to save schools

Libs' plan to save schools
DANIELLE McKAY | July 04, 2011 12.01am

LIBERAL leader Will Hodgman has challenged his political foes to join forces and support legislation he will table this week that could save 20 schools from closure.

Mr Hodgman has asked his Greens and Labor counterparts to put their "money where their mouth is" and support the Bill that backs savings outlined in the Liberals' alternative budget.

Mr Hodgman said by accepting sections of the Liberals' budget, including sacking the state architect and abolishing the fox taskforce, the Government could meet necessary savings and keep the 20 rural and suburban schools open for at least the next year.

"The savings that are necessary to keep these 20 schools open, just over $3 million in this coming year, can easily be found in other areas," he said.

"In our alternative budget we have identified a number of savings measures, places we would rather cut funding before you start shutting schools.

"We will move to amend this Budget and that will give members of this Parliament, both Labor and Green, an opportunity to say and to show clearly that they are serious about keeping these schools open."

Premier Lara Giddings said until the exact proposed amendments were seen, she could not speculate on the Government's position.

However, Ms Giddings said immediate action was necessary to avoid a $4 billion debt and an annual interest bill of $300 million in four years' time.

"It would be unusual to amend the State Budget, which is based on careful research and financial modelling," she said.

"The Opposition's proposed amendments would have to be based on real economic and educational sense, not just more shallow populism and opportunism.

"The Liberals' track record doesn't inspire confidence on that front."

Mr Hodgman's challenge comes as Education Minister Nick McKim faces angry protests from communities as he meets school associations at the 20 schools flagged for potential closure.

Hundreds of parents, friends and students have met at Save Our School public meetings statewide over past weeks, many addressed by Liberal, Labor and Greens MPs.

Mr Hodgman said that if his political counterparts were genuine in their belief that schools should not be closed, he would give them the chance to express that this week.

"They've been running around the state for the last week saying they want to support these schools, well this is their chance," he said.

"We'll see whether or not their priority is keeping schools open or if they'll keep wasting money."

mckaydm@news.net.au