The Ulster Unionist Party’s North Antrim MLA Robin Swann has criticised the Education Ministers 'back door' announcement that Ballee Community High School is to close.
Mr Swann said:
“The timing and manner of this announcement is an absolute disgrace, with the School Principal being contacted by the North Eastern Education and Library Board in the middle of Election Day to inform him Ballee High school was destined for closure.
“Perhaps the Minister thought making such an announcement on Election Day would be a good day to release bad news, in the hope that the media focus was elsewhere.
“If that is the case, I can assure him that as a Governor of the school, I for one will be demanding answers to a number of questions that have been posed by, pupils, parents and staff.
“The main question that needs answered and which should have been addressed at the same time as the closure announcement, is just what plans have the NEELB put in place for the pupils? After all, it is their future that is of the utmost importance here.
“The proposal that the Governors put forward and which received widespread support has been completely ignored, as have the children and I have asked for a meeting with the Minister as a matter of urgency to see what support he will provide.”