Christian Brothers seek sale of Christchurch college assets

The land and buildings are owned by charitable trust the Trustees of Christian Brothers of New Zealand, which is overseen by the Brother’s Oceania Province. Last month, the Brothers became the first Catholic order in Australia to seek to effectively wind up.

It is proposing an ordered liquidation called a creditor’s scheme of arrangement.

“We accept that we have now reached a pivotal moment facing a very difficult financial position,” the Brothers’ announcement read. “The creditors eligible to participate in the proposed scheme will include the victims and survivors of abuse experienced in our facilities.”

A statement sent on behalf of the school’s board and principal Steve Hart to Stuff confirmed that the Christian Brothers had served on the school a court request for permission to sell the assets.   

“Whether this goes ahead is a matter for the courts, but the school board will oppose this request,” the statement said.  

“However, what we are clear on is our very strong commitment for St Thomas of Canterbury College to keep educating our boys and young men.”

The board and school leadership team were committed to opposing the court action, and otherwise finding a way to keep the school operating on its current site, the statement said.

“We have a long history here on land that was originally gifted by the Bishop of Christchurch for our school. We will work with the Ministry of Education and the Catholic Diocese of Christchurch as this matter progresses to find the right solution for our school.”

A Ministry of Education spokesperson said it is aware of reports regarding the financial position of the Christian Brothers and the potential impact on the College, but added that it would be inappropriate for the Ministry to comment further at this stage.

“St Thomas of Canterbury College remains governed and managed by its board, and day-to-day operations continue as normal. Our priority, alongside the College, is the wellbeing and learning of students, staff and the wider school community,” the spokesperson said.

“We will continue to provide support and guidance as needed, working closely with the school’s proprietor, board and leadership team.”

FULL STORY

Prestigious school’s future in doubt amid move to sell its land and buildings to pay sexual abuse victims (By Jake Kenny/Stuff)

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