Member for Cook Cynthia Lui has welcomed news the Napranum Early Childcare Centre will remain open for an extra two months.
Ms Lui said Napranum Council has this week agreed to keep open the service until 3 August 2018, extending the previous suspension date of 31 May 2018.
“I know the pending closure of the service at Napranum Early Childcare Centre has been very concerning for parents and community members,” Ms Lui said.
“We now have certainty that the centre will stay open until at least 3 August which is really welcome news for local families.
“This now provides more time for a longer-term solution to be found.
“I understand discussions are underway regarding the establishment of a second long day care service in Weipa.”
Education Minister and Ministerial Champion for Napranum Grace Grace said the Department of Education was working with Rio Tinto to establish a second service.
“Rio Tinto has already lodged an application to set up a long day care service in Weipa,” Ms Grace said.
“The Department is currently working through that application with urgent priority.
“We want to see another service up and running as soon as possible to allow for continuity in service for the local community. “I’d like to acknowledge Cynthia Lui’s advocacy on this important issue for local families.
“This has been a great example of everyone working together to find a solution – the Council, Rio Tinto, the Department of Education, and community members in both Weipa and Napranum.
“I will continue to work with the local member and my Department to ensure families in Napranum can access the services they need.”
Ms Lui said, as a parent, she understood the importance of having access to quality childcare services.
“I will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure we are meeting the needs of families residing in Napranum and Weipa,” Ms Lui said.
“Once the outcome of Rio Tinto’s application is known, I hope to welcome the confirmation of good news for the local community.”
Media contact: Cook Electorate Office – 4223 1100
