McNulty calls for School Reopening Plan to be Advanced

Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty has asked Education Minister, Peter Weir to bring forward a plan for school reopening following their enforced Covid-19 closure since March.

Mr McNulty said “Today in the Assembly Chamber, I was glad to have the opportunity to engage with Minister Weir and congratulate him on his Expert Panel initiative to tackle education underattainment.”

“I asked the Minister to consider the impact of COVID-19 on children and students from areas of disadvantage, who have struggled to access online learning. In his reply to me, the Minister committed to supporting initiatives that put all children on an equal footing and this is very welcome.”

“I also urged the Minister to bring forward a plan for the safe reopening of schools, noting the huge levels of anxiety that exist across the North. Many parents, pupils and teachers are deeply concerned about the reopening of schools on a full time basis in September. So far engagement has been lacking and it must be scaled up.”

“We recognise the difficult position that the Minister is in, but he must do all he can to reassure those with legitimate concerns. It is vital that the Minister steps up engagement and provides this information and so pupils, parents and teachers know they can return to school safely.”