School closure plans are still not finalised and the consultation process remains open, the Ministry of Education has told The Royal Gazette.

The announcement came after Gilbert Institute parents, teachers, children and supporters participated in a rally on Wednesday morning outside Modern Mart in Paget.

They fear for the primary school’s future, after it was earmarked for possible closure in the Government’s recently released school reorganisation (Score) report.

During the demonstration, which took place from 8am, PTA secretary Suzanne DeCouto criticised the Government for its opaque decision-making process.

“They haven’t approached us, and we have no concrete idea exactly why they want to close the school,” she said. “We’d like to know — have they found someone to buy the land?”

Following the rally, a spokeswoman for the Ministry of Education sympathised with “the concerns expressed by parents and students at the Gilbert Institute School”.

She said: “It is important that everyone keeps in mind that a decision has not been made regarding school reorganisation or school closures.

“The Score report provides scenarios for consideration. The Minister of Education (Wayne Scott) appreciates the input, comments and ideas offered by all PTAs and encourages them to submit their concerns, questions and ideas to the Ministry during the consultation process, which ends on March 4.”

To contact the Ministry, call 278-3300 or visit www.moed.bm.