Summer scheme reinstated

The school say they're thankful the SELB scheme is back up to two weeks and transport will be provided.

Local MLA George Savage has also expressed his delight at the board's reversal of the decision to cut the scheme from two-weeks down to one.

Ceara principal Dr Peter Cunningham said: "We're thankful that it's back up to two weeks and transport will be provided.

"It's perhaps unfortunate the way things panned out. It's made things difficult for parents, children and staff to plan their summer holidays, but we are where we are. There's nothing can be done about it now, and we have to be thankful it's been reinstated."

The SELB-run summer scheme will take place between July 19 and 30 and there are currently 56 children enrolled.

The UUP's George Savage said: "This is fantastic news for both the children and their parents. It is tribute to the dedication of the parents who have not let this issue go and forced the board into realising that its original decision was wrong.

"I am glad that the Board took the time to reconsider its original decision and I would like to thank the Equality Commission, the Children's Commissioner and the Children's Law Centre for the role that they played in helping to secure this provision for children who deserve our absolute best.

"Society is measured on how it cares for its most vulnerable - I am delighted that the decision has been overturned and I wish the children and the parents all the very best for a happy and enjoyable summer."

Welcoming the reversal Upper Bann MP David Simpson said: “I had been approached by several families who would be affected by this. It had seemed as if there was little prospect of any movement but I am delighted at this about turn.

“This is very good news. Many of the parents that I have been working with have been understandably deeply concerned about the impact this would have had.

“These are some of the most vulnerable of our children and I am pleased that good sense has prevailed.”