Ulster-Scots Learning Site

Oral Answers to Questions – in the Northern Ireland Assembly at 3:45 am on 11 June 2007.

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Photo of Kieran McCarthy Kieran McCarthy Alliance 3:45, 11 June 2007

7.   asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to make a statement on the Ulster-Scots learning site commissioned by the Ulster-Scots Agency; and on whether this represents value for public money and highest academic standards.

          (AQO 17/07)

Photo of Edwin Poots Edwin Poots DUP

The Ulster-Scots learning site was com­missioned by the Ulster-Scots Agency from Stranmillis University College to develop curriculum and teaching materials for primary and secondary schools and adult learners. The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) conducted an inspection of the unit in 2006 and concluded that the quality of the work is good and that it fulfils the terms of its remit well.

Photo of Kieran McCarthy Kieran McCarthy Alliance

I am disappointed in the Minister’s response in that it did not inform the House of the cost of the site. I understand that the cost — and he can deny it if it is not true — was £1 million for a website that has been a single idle page for over a year. Does the Minister regard that as good value for money?

Photo of Edwin Poots Edwin Poots DUP

I cannot confirm Mr McCarthy’s figure of £1 million for a single-page website. I will look into the matter, but I very much doubt that it is an accurate figure.

Photo of Nelson McCausland Nelson McCausland DUP

The Minister’s answer on the involvement of Ulster Scots in the curriculum illustrates the progress that is being made in relation to Ulster-Scots language and culture. Can the Minister tell the House when the current proposals from the Ulster-Scots Academy Implementation Group (USAIG), which were submitted to the Department in August 2006, will be put out to consultation?

Photo of Edwin Poots Edwin Poots DUP

It is my intention that the consultation will be launched before the summer recess.