Plaid Cymru responds to school closures over RAAC concrete

Plaid Cymru has responded to the announcement that two schools in Wales, Ysgol David Hughes and Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi on Ynys Môn, will not re-open tomorrow (5 Sept) due to concerns relating to change of guidance on RAAC concrete.

Plaid Cymru’s Education Spokesperson, Heledd Fychan MS, said:

“I fully support the decisive action taken by Ynys Mon Council to close both schools whilst further assessments take place, as the health and safety of leaners and staff is of paramount importance.

“However, with work to verify the position across Wales still ongoing, it is concerning that the scale of the problem across the country is currently unknown.

“By not sharing the latest evidence until late last night with the Welsh Government, the UK Government has potentially put the safety of children, young people and staff in schools and colleges at risk. Welsh Government must now act decisively to ensure that this risk is mitigated.

“The Treasury’s reluctance to announce new money is incredibly disappointing. Given these buildings were constructed before devolution, the UK Government has a duty to release new money for schools in Wales to make repairs.”

Rhun ap Iorwerth, Member of the Senedd for Ynys Môn and Leader of Plaid Cymru said:

“The situation is a worrying one – I have already discussed it with Welsh Government’s Education Minister, and I understand from Anglesey County Council that they have been monitoring the buildings that contain RAAC annually as is required of them.

“I’m grateful to Anglesey Council for responding promptly and effectively. The priority now is to ensure that the further necessary security assessments that are required take place as soon as possible, and I will ensure that I am kept updated by Anglesey County Council and Welsh Government. It will then be necessary to find out why and how information was not shared earlier by the UK Government. Any parents who are seeking further information are welcome to contact my office.”