David Ford said: “I am extremely pleased that there has been a positive response to Parkhall College’s request to gain integrated status. This is great news for the Antrim area and is testament to the excellent and progressive work carried out at Parkhall College.
“Antrim has had a difficult time in recent months; however, the community has stood together and this is a real boost for the area.
“We welcome this move, but it is regrettable that Caitríona Ruane has failed to grant integrated status to other schools in recent times and we would like to see a much more positive trend from the Minister on this issue.
“We need more sharing and integration in education to improve community relations and deliver more value for money.”
ENDS