Ulster Unionist Education Committee Vice-Chair Danny Kinahan MLA, has welcomed news that eighteen schools across Northern Ireland are to share in funds of £173m, including thirteen new builds.

Speaking after the Education Minister outlined his plans for Capital Investment, Danny said:

“Today’s announcement of the Education Minister’s plans for capital investment is long overdue. For those schools that have been fortunate in receiving a shared of the £173milliom there will be a great sense of relief amongst staff and parents.  However the sad reality is that there are still many schools across Northern Ireland, both primary and post-primary which have for a long time been demonstrating that further capital investment is needed.’

“I know that there will be some schools who will be disappointed to have found they were not on the list for new builds, but with more announcements expected in the Autumn I would urge them to keep the faith.’

“However at this moment in time when there is are view of SEN being carried out within the Department of Education it is heartening to see such substantial investment into the sector.’

“I would like to hear more from the Minister on what resources or assistance he intends to offer to these schools in order to  encourage them to work towards a greater sharing of their facilities and staff.’

“The Ulster Unionist Party has long believed in the merits of a single education system.  The announcement made today provides a great opportunity to encourage the sharing of resources and enable our young people to begin learning together.  The problems created by division in Northern Ireland are vast, but these little steps towards a single education system will go a long way to helping heal the divisions of our past.’

“I amdisappointed that the Minister was unable to provide me with more detail overwhat his next step will be with regards to the sharing of resources.’