September 24, 2024
Opposition Statement on the fire at the Uriah McPhee Primary School
We are deeply concerned by the events that unfolded today at the Uriah McPhee
Primary School, where a fire broke out near a grade one classroom and forced
the early dismissal of nearly 400 students, faculty and staff.
My heart goes out to the two staff members and thestudent who had to be taken
to the hospital as a result of the fire. While I am relieved that no lives were lost,
this incident highlights serious issues that require immediate attention.
We are told that the fire not only disrupted the school day but also destroyed a
significant number of textbooks – a devastating loss for both students and
teachers. Even more troubling is the apparent absence of an automatic fire
suppression system at the school. Brave teachers and staff were forced to rely
on fire extinguishers as they evacuated the students, risking their own safety in
the process. This is unacceptable.
This should never have to happen in a modern, well-equipped school.
Preliminary reports suggest that this fire was caused by an electrical issue. Given
that, we are left to wonder: Were any electrical upgrades made during the
summer school repairs? If so, were these upgrades properly executed, or is
shoddy workmanship to blame? If such repairs were undertaken, it is imperative
that we ask if a thorough safety inspection was conducted after the repairs were
completed to ensure that the school was safe for the start of the academic year?
I want to take a moment to commend the incredible bravery of the Uriah McPhee
Primary School teachers and staff, as well as the quick response of our
firefighters and first responders. Their swift and selfless actions prevented this
fire from becoming a far greater disaster and ensured the safety of the children.
The Opposition demands a full investigation into the cause of this fire. The
students, parents and teachers of the Uriah McPhee Primary School deserve
answers and swift action to prevent any recurrence of such a dangerous event.
Our schools must be sanctuaries of learning, not places where lives are at risk.
Adrian Gibson, MP
Long Island
Shadow Minister of Education, Technical & Vocational Training