Resentment is rapidly growing over a proposal to close five primary schools as a cost saving measure for Government.

It is not easy to fathom how such an ambitious scheme that would impact so many parents and teachers could be floated out there without full consideration of the broad ramifications involved. It seems almost incomprehensible that in one breath, we hear of plans to improve education in Bermuda, and in the next, we hear five schools are facing the axe.

Stunned parents are puzzled and angry over a move that appears to be more disruptive than constructive, at a time when the current system needs a major review, big time. Our children need the best education possible if Bermuda is to have a sound future.

What is particularly aggravating is the need for cost-cutting now after so much money has been squandered in recent years on such things as music festivals, and events that had little benefit for the Bermudian people on a whole.

So what we have are people who actually feel blindsided by what they perceive as mismanagement of the public purse, which has placed us in this position. Accurate or not, this is a perception shared through much of the community. Obviously there are those who view such a stance as an anti- Government posture.

I heard one angry parent state: "It seems all this country wants is the elite to reside here. Not everyone can afford private schools." If the Education Ministry has a master plan to improve the system, they certainly are having a tough time selling it to the public. Instead, again we have a situation charged with potential confrontation.

Government is expected to operate with professional skill and transparency, in dealing with controversial matters, most of all in education.

Our education system should never fall victim to any type of needless cost-cutting. Education is too important to be sacrificed purely to reduce spending. Most would agree that excessive spending in any Government department is not a good thing, and any Finance official should know that.

Neither should Government be displeased at those who raise their voices against the proposed scheme. After all, they are doing no more than exercising a democratic right.

There is nothing more discouraging than a Government acting as though they are riding on the high horse of righteousness, incapable off doing anything wrong. Good government should never be seen to stifle free expression as long as it is presented respectfully. Also the free press should never be blamed for exposing matters of public interest, irrespective of how sensitive they maybe.

The closures of five schools has struck a nerve throughout the community and Government should expect a backlash even from some of their supporters. Education experts, after examining the whole picture, have decided to take drastic steps to bring about improvement. That is fine, except parents and teachers should be fully informed about what is on the table.

Weak public relations can often lead to gross misinterpretations that result in officials scrambling to do damage control. The logistics involved in closing five schools may have been worked out, but for many there are questions over how effective this will be in raising standards.

Whatever happens, the overall objective should be what is best for Bermuda, the children, and our future. Let's hope that is the only motive behind this move.

In a highly competitive world, our children must be properly educated to meet modern demands of the day. Any changes aimed at achieving this goal will have the support of the public. However it is equally important as to how these changes are carried out.

Far better communication is needed between Government and the public on key issues, if we are to avoid unnecessary clashes that hinder progress. Too often it is what we don't know ,that makes it difficult to solve problems.

Let's hope everything will be spelled out clearly, so that any decision taken will be the right one for the country and the people.