NICIE Statement on Recent Events and Violence

Like many individuals and organisations, the Council for Integrated Education is deeply troubled by the violence and unrest we have seen in our streets over the past number of days. Our thoughts are with the victim of the attack in North Belfast and all those affected since.

We recognise the challenges facing schools as they support children and young people during this difficult time, particularly those who may be directly impacted or struggling to understand what is happening around them. We also wish to acknowledge post-primary pupils currently sitting formal examinations, for whom this is already a stressful period, now further disrupted by uncertainty and travel difficulties. 

We are thinking of all those working to promote calm, understanding and peace.

We firmly believe that the only way forward is through non-violent approaches to conflict resolution. By engaging with one another respectfully and embracing our diversity, we can build a genuinely shared and inclusive society.