Speaking in Parliament Buildings, the Minister said: “I welcome every opportunity to debate issues about improving our education system and in doing so providing support to our young people to achieve their full potential. I want to place on record again, that I take the Department’s statutory duty regarding integrated education very seriously. I endorse the vital and valuable contribution that the integrated sector make to building a peaceful and stable future for our children and young people.”

Commenting on the recent judicial review the Minister said: “The judgement by Lord Justice Treacy provides welcome clarification in respect of the scope of the Article 64 duty. I am pleased that the Court rejected the argument that the area planning process was unlawful. I want to also highlight that the judge declared that my decision making in this case had not been fettered as had been claimed. In light of this clarification I will review the internal guidance to ensure that it is consistent with the judgement.

“I will continue to have regard to all the relevant statutory obligations including Article 64 and I will ensure that the needs of every child remains at the heart of educational provision. My role is to plan education first and foremost for the benefit of our children and young people.”

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