“The Blue Mountains has a 40 per cent higher rate of asthma than the State average.

“Consider the lack of logic here — the DET requires cross ventilation in classrooms, but not all classrooms at Blackheath Public School have windows on both sides and if you open windows, you let cold air in and have to turn the gas on full blast.”

Mr Kalina said unflued gas heaters are already banned in Western Australia, Queensland, Victoria, USA, UK and even India.

“It is going to cost a lot of money to replace the unflued gas heaters, but by putting their heads in the sand, the DET is suggesting it is okay to cause respiratory problems in children,” he said.

P&C presidents from Hazelbrook, Wentworth Falls, Leura and Blackheath Public Schools all put their weight behind COUGH at the forum.

“I want to commend your effort and work to date,” Leura P&C president Michael Mullen said.

“There is great concern in Leura about this issue and we express our support.”

Liberal spokesperson for Blue Mountains Michael Paag announced NSW Opposition leader Barry O’Farrell will visit Blackheath today (March 26) at his request to discuss the issue with Blackheath Public School P&C members and interested parents.

“The Opposition is seriously looking at this issue,” Mr Paag said.

“I personally believe hydronic heating is the way to go because it is the safest form and is efficient.

“There was a NSW Parliamentary inquiry report previously done which recommended unflued gas heaters be banned, but it was never acted on.”

Member for Blue Mountains Phil Koperberg did not attend the forum due to another commitment.

In a letter to Blackheath Public School P&C, Mr Koperberg stated he acknowledges the issues and concerns raised relating to unflued gas heaters.

“I have made representations to the Minister on behalf of the P&C and other schools in my electorate,” the letter informed.

“I expect further advice from the Minister’s office in the next fortnight and will be in contact.”