Ford slams decision to give integrated pupils less of a cash boost than others

12.01.00pm GMT Wed 24th Jan 2007

Alliance Leader David Ford has hit out at news that the Education Minister is to give integrated education the lowest percentage funding increase per pupil out of all the education sectors. He stated that the Minister's commitment to a shared future must be questioned. Maria Eagle announced today that integrated education funding per pupil will increase by only 2.5% whereas other sectors' funding will increase by more.

David Ford said: "Whilst funding is up, integrated education is being given the lowest percentage increase per pupil out of all sectors.

"Before Christmas, the very same Minister stopped the creation of two new integrated primary schools, refused two existing schools integrated status, and refused Antrim town an integrated secondary school.

"Following this kick in the teeth for the integrated sector in December, we now have another being administered in January.

"You must question the Minister's commitment to a shared future.

"It is quite unbelievable that this revelation on funding comes the day after Peter Hain stated that sharing is the way forward for education.

"This ad-hoc type approach to such announcements and decisions is very destabilising. We need a proper framework and strategy so that long term plans can be drawn up and all schools can plan in confidence for the future."