Ministry reports jump in applications

More parents are applying for places for their children in public schools, Education Minister Terry Lister said in the House of Assembly last week. Mr. Lister said that so far 555 applications for primary schools have been received compared to a total of 452 in 2004.

He said Heron Bay Primary would accept two Primary One classes with 17 students each this year, while West End Primary would only accommodate one Primary One class with 17 students.

And Mr. Lister said 357 applications had been received for Government pre-schools so far and are still coming in on a steady basis.

Mr. Lister also noted that after more than ten years, Somerset Pre-School would close its doors at the end of the school year, allowing children of Sandys the opportunity to attend Lagoon Park Pre-School. Teachers will also be transferred to Lagoon Park.

Meanwhile pre-schools in Devonshire, Prospect and St. John's continue to be short of spaces to accommodate applicants. Mr. Lister added that parents would be assisted in finding places for their children.

Bermuda Arts Council records deficit

The Bermuda Arts Council reported a deficit in 2003, according to a financial report tabled in the House of Assembly on Friday.

Auditor General Larry Dennis said the Arts Council was allocated $127,500 in 2003, but recorded a slight deficit of $3,549.