Alliance Education spokesperson Chris Lyttle MLA has said the Education Authority’s handling of proposals relating to special schools in Belfast has been “shambolic”.
Mr Lyttle was speaking after receiving word from the Education Authority it would not be publishing proposals into the future of the schools. It was believed they were scheduled for pre-publication consultation this month, with official development proposals published for two-month public consultation in the autumn.
“The Education Authority handling of this matter has been shambolic. After information was provided to parents last month, it is my understanding they will not now be published,” said Mr Lyttle.
“Instead EA will engage directly with parents of pupils, which is what they should have done from the start. There is a need for urgent clarification to staff, parents and the wider community on what exactly is being proposed for the future of the schools.
“Special schools need investment, that much is clear. But the Education Authority needs to clearly communicate its thoughts and plans for costed, child-centred proposals so that the future of special school provision in Belfast can be openly discussed.”