Reports that Berkeley Institute?s new campus failed a fire safety test have been rubbished by Government.

Housing Minister Sen. David Burch told reporters yesterday the claim the entire structure had not passed the test was a ?complete falsehood? and a ?lie?.

He was responding to a radio story that said an electrical contractor report had raised safety concerns and suggested the new school had not passed fire regulations.

But Sen. Burch said the site design met Planning Authority codes.

?Who in this country in their right minds, regardless of political persuasion, would jeopardise the welfare of our greatest asset (children)?? he asked. ?It just does not make any sense.?

The Minister added: ?All work has been done in compliance with those codes.

The necessary fire alarm devices ? for example smoke detectors, strobe/horns, pull stations etc. ? meet the requirements of the National Fire Prevention Authority.?

He said the Bermuda Fire Service had reviewed the campus blueprint and requested extra smoke detectors ?over and above these requirements?.

He said the Ministry of Works, Engineering and Housing had agreed to this extra work and that it would not affect the January 2006 hand-over deadline. Some had already been carried out, with the rest due to be completed over the summer holidays.

The Minister also told reporters the school would be manned around the clock by security staff, a move he said would further improve safety.

?Such reports that the entire school has failed inspection are unfounded and groundless, and only serve to be detrimental to the progress being made at the school,? he said.

?We are working closely with the Bermuda Fire Service to ensure that we meet all criteria that relate to the school?s fire alarm system.?