A major new drive to reduce arson attacks in Wales and protect schools against fires is underway thanks to the Labour led Assembly Government.

Welsh Labour Social Justice Minister Brian Gibbons has announced a £6m funding package to install sprinkler systems in schools over the next three years and continue support for Wales’s Arson Reduction Teams.

Since the Arson Reduction Teams were set up in 2005 there has been a 30% reduction in arson attacks – saving valuable fire service and police time and saving the Welsh economy almost £24m.

The teams are made up of police and fire service personnel who use educational and crime prevention measures to reduce arson attacks, such as deliberate school fires. The teams also undertake a full crime reduction survey of schools and offer grants for extra fire protection.

Labour Social Justice Minister Brian Gibbons said:

''Welsh Labour is on the side of local parents, teachers and pupils with our zero tolerance approach on arson.

''Extra funding for the Arson Reduction Teams and extra money for sprinkler systems in our schools will cut the number of arson attacks and prevent the damage they can do in our schools.

''Arson attacks on schools cause widespread damage and disruption to our students and local community. Sprinkler systems in schools will ensure that pupils, teachers and the school buildings are protected from fire.

''Extra measures like secure fencing and secure bin storage will also help reduce the chances of arson attacks or accidental fires in our schools.

''Thanks to Welsh Labour’s tough action on arson attacks our communities and schools are much safer.''

15/10/07