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.”
ENDS