Little Flower Girls’ School

Oral Answers to Questions — Education – in the Northern Ireland Assembly at 3:15 pm on 8 February 2016.

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Photo of William Humphrey William Humphrey DUP 3:15, 8 February 2016

T8. Mr Humphrey asked the Minister of Education whether he will commit to meet the parent representatives and board of governors from Little Flower post-primary school in North Belfast, who recently met with him and his colleague Nigel Dodds, in light of the fact that the board of governors is united that the school should be retained, with a petition recently presented to the Assembly, albeit that, sadly, however, CCMS refused to meet the parent representatives and the governors. (AQT 3458/11-16)

Photo of John O'Dowd John O'Dowd Sinn Féin

If the Member cares to write to me on the matter, I will certainly take it under consideration. There are proposals around a development proposal for that area. It may not be the case, but, if my memory serves me right, the consultation for that area may have closed around 19 January. If that is not the case, we can facilitate a meeting if the Member writes to me.

Photo of William Humphrey William Humphrey DUP

I thank the Minister for that response, and I will certainly endeavour to do that. It is my understanding that the parents of pupils at Little Flower and those of pupils at St Patrick's are keen on the retention of both as single-sex post-primary schools in north Belfast. He should be aware that this is a viewpoint that is widely held across the community in north Belfast and, obviously, in particular, by the parents of the pupils attending both schools.

Photo of John O'Dowd John O'Dowd Sinn Féin

I take the Member's comments on board. Changes in the school estate can often result in a keen interest from the community, which is a good thing. I always take on board the views and commentary of local parents and local representatives in regard to that matter.

Photo of Roy Beggs Roy Beggs UUP

That is the end of our time for topical questions. I ask Members to take their ease for a few minutes.