School to get security fencing

Umina Public School will get security fences as part of a four-year program to fence 450 schools by 2007.

Other Peninsula schools are likely to be fenced in later parts of the program.

Member for Peats, Ms Marie Andrews, said security fences were highly effective in reducing crime targeting schools.

"They have also been shown to reduce vandalism and break-ins by 70 per cent and arson by 90 per cent," she said.

"Security fences work. They protect our State's school children and staff."

"We still have a way to go to reduce all the community problems that can affect our schools but new security measures such as fencing are proving very successful."

Ms Andrews said new school intruder laws had come into force.

"People who enter schools to assault or intimidate teachers or pupils will face five new offences with penalties of up to 12 years' imprisonment.

"The penalties for school intruders are tougher than those for similar non-school crimes, to reflect the special protected status of our schools," Ms Andrews said.

Press release, February 12