"Today I was pleased to hear that government is willing to rebuild the damaged portions of the Hopedale school to it’s original size and shape," said Andersen. "Students have already returned to some portions of the school that received less extensive damage. The Minister confirmed for the people of Hopedale today that the remaining portions of the school, including the gym and staff room, will be fixed during next year’s construction season.

"At the time, I was very saddened to hear about the fire at the new school in Hopedale. Securing a new school to be built in the community was something I fought for long and hard in my first years as the Member for Torngat Mountains. It is reassuring to know this building will be restored for the children in the community."

The Liberal MHA received the commitment from the Minister in the House of Assembly during question period. The government has been less willing to commit funding to build an auditorium for the children in the Upper Lake Melville Region and all of Labrador. "I have raised the issue of the auditorium in question period and through petitions several times. The children left the festival in Goose Bay this week not knowing if they will be able to return again in the future. Government is well aware of the need for a new facility to be built and I am asking them today to move forward and announce funding."