00:00The situation here at Holy Name Convent in Port of Spain continues to develop.
00:06As of this morning, an online petition calling for the removal of the recently appointed principal of the school on
00:14website change.org had amassed over 800 signatures.
00:18Shortly before news time, that number had climbed to just over 1100.
00:23An investigation has now been triggered.
00:25According to the Board of Management of Holy Name Convent, it has taken note of the concerns, emotions and experiences
00:33being shared publicly following the recent appointment of the principal.
00:37Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Siena says there is a deep connection to the school by many past and
00:44present students, parents, staff and alumni.
00:48And as such, the conversations that are now taking place are deeply personal.
00:52Those discussions allege verbal, mental and emotional abuse, as well as matters jeopardizing physical health of past students.
01:00As such, the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine states, quote,
01:04In light of the concerns raised, the Board has initiated a full investigation into the current and past allegations involving
01:12the principal.
01:13This process will be conducted independently of both the Board and the leadership of the Dominican Sisters,
01:20and in accordance with the procedures of the Ministry of Education and the Teaching Service Commission, end quote.
01:26The Board says the well-being, dignity and development of those seeking an education at the school are a central
01:33focus to the school and the Board.
01:36Pertaining to the probe, the Dominican Sisters adds, quote,
01:39We as Board members have unanimously agreed to this process being independent from our management and from the leadership of
01:47the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Siena.
01:50We are committed to addressing this matter in utter transparency with accountability and with due process.
01:57In the coming weeks, the Board will continue its engagement with relevant stakeholders as part of this open process, end
02:05quote.
02:06Among the convent's core values, the Board outlines the word emblazoned at the front of the school, veritas, interpreted to
02:14mean truth.
02:15It says, that is what it is seeking as it calls on current students to file any complaints through the
02:22existing processes.
02:24It points to additional processes, which it says will be outlined as the investigation unfolds for other people, including past
02:31students, wishing to lodge reports.
02:33As the Board asks for patience, understanding and prayer for all involved, it says in the spirit of truth, they
02:40will continue to move forward together as a community.
02:44Alicia Boucher, TV6 News.
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