AQW 14146/17-22 Written question to the Minister of Education
To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) his decision to turn down Strangford Integrated College’s development proposal; and (ii) why Judge Treacy’s rulings, that emphasised integrated education is a standalone concept and applications for growth ought not to be considered in light of falling numbers in catholic maintained or controlled schools, was not followed.
Asked by Kellie Armstrong MLA on 5 February 2021
- Answered
- Written
- Priority
- Tabled
- 5 February 2021
- Answer due by
- 15 February 2021
- Answered
- 11 February 20216 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Education
- Priority question
- Yes
Answer
My decision, and the rationale for it, is published in full on the Department’s website and is accessible at the following link: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/dp-622-strangford-integrated-college-0
As my decision makes clear, impacts on other schools was not the sole reason not to approve the Development Proposal. I also referenced future population numbers as a factor and use of Temporary Variation arrangements to manage any required changes.