Window upgrade 'too little too late' for dad

Five years ago schoolgirl Paula-Jane Raynel fell through a glass window at school and died from the horrific injuries to her neck.

Yesterday the Government announced it would spend $7.5 million applying safety film to school windows nationwide to help prevent similar tragedies.

Twelve-year-old Paula-Jane's accident happened at Bohally Intermediate School in Blenheim, as she chased a ball during netball practice on May 13, 1996. The youngster had dreamed of being a Silver Fern. She died in Wairau hospital the next day.

A nationwide survey taken after her death confirmed that greater protection was advisable.

"This tragic accident reminded us of the need to be continually alert to the fact that dangers can exist that are not always obvious," said Education Minister Trevor Mallard. He said the glass in schools was not considered unsafe, but they wanted to bring it up to a higher standard.

Paula-Jane's father, Peter, last night said he was pleased the Government was spending the money but it felt like "too little, too late."

Bohally Intermediate principal Andy Laurenson said that since the tragedy broken windows had been replaced with strengthened or laminated glass.