AQW 10785/22-27

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 24/04/2024
Answered On Date: 30/04/2024
Priority Written: Yes

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education when he will sign off on the development proposal for Cairnshill Primary School.

Answer:

On 12 October 2023, the Education Authority (EA) published DP 719 at the request of the Board of Governors (BoGs) of Cairnshill PS proposing that:

‘Cairnshill Primary School will transform to Controlled Integrated Status, with effect from 1 September 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter’.

The statutory two-month objection period in relation to this DP ended on 19 December 2023 and I am informed that my officials are preparing a submission for my consideration.

The assessment of any DP is a complex process and requires careful consideration of all evidence to ensure decisions are taken in the best interests of all children and to ensure they have access to high quality education that is viable and sustainable in the long term.

I have not yet received a report on the proposal. I am therefore unable to provide a precise date by which a decision will be taken, but I am aware of the importance of providing clarity to the school and when presented with a report, I will not seek to delay my decision.