AQW 24256/22-27

Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 12/03/2025
Answered On Date: 14/03/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education when he will make a decision on the development proposal for an Irish-medium nursery school at St Colmcille's Primary School, Carrickmore.

Answer:

Development Proposal (DP) 734 which proposes that an Irish-medium statutory nursery unit will be established at St Colmcille’s Primary School, Carrickmore to provide 26 part-time nursery places, with effect from 1 September 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter, was published by the Education Authority on 12 September 2024.

The two-month statutory objection period in relation to this DP ended on 12 November 2024 and I am informed that my officials are in the final stages of preparing a report 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 am aware of the need for clarity and certainty for the school and its community, therefore I will endeavour to provide that clarity and certainty as soon as practically possible.