‘Children’s lives are at risk’

A concerned father has slammed authorities for failing to address safety fears at East End Primary School.

Thomas Harvey says roofing that covers the walkway into the school poses a ‘dangerous hazard’ to students and staff.

And he believes the deteriorating structure is an ‘accident waiting to happen’ for students when they return to school for the new term on Friday.

The father-of-two even commissioned a structural report to be done on the roof last month by Brunel Engineering Consultants, which found that the roof was ‘not structurally sound’.

Last night the Department of Public Works told the Sun that it was ‘working to repair the porch’ and workers were on site at the school.

But Mr Harvey says the problem should have been tackled a lot sooner.

He added: “This is just not good enough.

“I have one daughter who already goes to the school and one who is just about to start there.

“This current situation is putting children’s lives at risk and I am not prepared to stand by and do nothing.

“I brought this matter to the attention of the authorities in plenty of time to do something about this but it seems nothing has been done.

“If this structure was to fall down during the school day it could have fatal consequences. Something has to be done about this and soon.”

Brunel Ltd inspected the existing porch on August 27. Their site report says there is ‘signs of ‘extensive rotting’ on several wall plates, joists and beams.

The report added: “Brunel Ltd believes that the existing porch roof is not structurally sound in its current state and it is recommended that the roof be removed and replaced.

“In the interim it is recommended that the roof be adequately propped and the porch area be cordoned off at a minimum distance of 10ft from the outer edge of the porch roof.”

A spokesman for the Ministry of Public Works told the Bermuda Sun: “The Ministry is working to repair the porch at East End Primary.

“The Principal of the school is aware of the planned repairs and has agreed the way forward with the Ministry.”

The Bermuda Sun tried to contact head teacher, Idonia Beckles, via email but without success.