Sugden puts pressure on Minister about Coleraine schools area plan

The East Londonderry MLA says she has been contacted by concerned parents.

“Whilst the Minister takes his time their anxiety grows.

“I have been putting pressure on the Department to make an announcement for some time.

“Two weeks ago the Minister told me to expect his decision in 48 hours. This has not happened.

“P7 pupils have received their transfer test results and are making decisions about where they will go to school in September.

“They need to know how the schools landscape is likely to change.

“Without this information, parents do not have a clear idea of the options which are available to them.

“Moving to secondary school can be an unsettling time and staff and parents are trying to ensure that this is as smooth as possible. The Minister is keeping them in the dark and making it difficult for families in my constituency to plan ahead.

“This announcement is part of the wider schools area plan. Post-primary education is going through a restructuring process and there are a number of changes happening.

“These changes must be strategically thought out and properly resourced in order to meet the needs of all of our young people. I urge the Minister to announce his plans and enable parents and pupils to make important decisions about their futures.”