Premier, Minister Pleased

The news that students at Judique-Creignish Consolidated return to school tomorrow is good for all concerned --especially the students, Premier Russell MacLellan and Education and Culture Minister Wayne Gaudet said today.

"This past weekend, I told parents and community members we could not look at this issue while the school was being occupied, and while students were being kept out of school," Premier MacLellan said. "This morning, the group left voluntarily, and students return to school tomorrow.

"For my part, I have asked my minister to contact the board and the community group --to open a dialogue to review the issues and concerns," said the premier. "I've committed to the group that they would get a fair hearing if they left the school. That will now happen."

Mr. Gaudet said his officials have already been in contact with the Strait Regional School Board and the community group. Both agreed to begin discussions as soon as possible.

"While there is clearly a difference of opinion between the board and the community, everyone has the best interests of the students in mind," Mr. Gaudet said. "We will start the dialogue from that common ground."

Mr. Gaudet said he hoped arrangements to begin discussions could be made within the week. "We are prepared to deal with this in a timely fashion, while taking the time to ensure all sides are fairly considered and heard."