East Derry SDLP MLA Cara Hunter has called on the Executive to secure immediate schools funding as a crisis looms for principals
Said Ms Hunter: “The news today from the Education Authority that 80% of our schools are set to be in financial deficit by the end of the year is a shocking indictment on the management of our schools.
“Our school workers, including, classroom assistants, bus drivers and canteen staff, are already in dire need of increased pay and even without increases forthcoming, more than half of our schools are operating in the red.
“We have been hearing for more than two years that our education system is in crisis and the news today from the EA further confirms the scale of crisis facing our schools.
“Our school leaders do a remarkable job in providing great education despite of the immense pressures facing them, but we must recognise that the wheels are soon to fall off without immediate intervention.
“Having spoken with countless parents, teachers and school leaders, I am acutely aware of the stress placed on staff and the impact that this is having on teaching and learning.
“I am calling on the Minister of Education today to enter into urgent talks with the British government to secure immediate funding to ensure our schools are able to excel.
“To build a healthy, thriving society, it is essential to have a school system that functions and to ensure a first class education system we need the funds to support this.
“It is time for the Executive to take the wellbeing and futures of our young people seriously and act to avert a serious crisis.”
