Ulster Unionist Education spokesperson Danny Kinahan MLA has given a cautious welcome to today’s announcement that 22 schools are to benefit from a new capital investment programme.
The South Antrim representative said:
“Those schools which have received good news today regarding capital investment will obviously be delighted and relieved. It is indeed good news that eight Post Primary and 14 Primary Schools projects are to be taken forward but my thoughts are also with those school communities who have not received the news they were hoping for.
Many schools have been waiting for years and whilst today’s announcement will be welcomed by the 22 schools affected, it will be perceived as a slap in the face by others who have been waiting for years for capital investment.
It is essential that a coherent and comprehensive plan is put in place for capital investment in our schools so that those in greatest need are prioritised. A piecemeal approach is not helpful and we need greater transparency in terms of decisions taken.
The future of our education system must not be looked at solely in terms of the school estate. The current reforms including the area planning process present us with an opportunity to further promote sharing across our education system.”