Praise for asbestos action by early childhood teacher

Nancy Bell, Chief Executive of Te Rito Maioha Early Childhood New Zealand (ECNZ), today praised the actions of Natalie Comerford, head teacher at Marlborough Street Childcare Centre.

It was only through Ms Comerford’s determination that asbestos was discovered in the building that was being demolished next door.

Natalie has queried the construction company about the presence of asbestos and was told none was present. After requesting the company to call in Worksafe New Zealand to test, asbestos was subsequently discovered and dealt with appropriately.

The centre has been closed since the discovery of asbestos, but will now reopen on Monday as new tests show that air levels are safe.

“Natalie’s actions are exemplary of the type of person we’re proud to have leading the education and care of our very youngest citizens.”

Ms Bell wants other centres near where buildings are being demolished or renovated to be tenacious in getting assurance that asbestos is not present.

“It is unthinkable that the situation got this far. I urge other centres to take a leaf out of Natalie’s book and push for assurance from Worksafe New Zealand that there is no asbestos present.”

The Association spoke with Ms Comerford who was thankful for the support received from both the Ministry of Education and Regional Public Health in this matter.

ENDS

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