Education Funding Community Groups 2023-06-21
2023-06-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Community groups are concerned about changes in education funding levels. Recent reports suggest a cost of division in education amounting to £226 million per year.
What recent discussions has the Minister had with community groups on the potential impact of changes in the level of funding for education in Northern Ireland?
We are always willing to work closely with the Northern Ireland civil service, but decisions during this governance gap are formalised through an Act of Parliament. I am open to discussing specific concerns and agree that restoring devolved Government is preferable for decision-making on education funding.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not confirm whether the Northern Ireland Office took direct action or advised on how guidance should be interpreted regarding proposed cuts.
Preferring Restored Local Governance
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Community groups welcomed the Department of Education's decision to not proceed with proposed cuts to early years, extended schools and youth service programmes.
The Department of Education announced that it will not proceed with proposed cuts. Will the Minister confirm whether direct action was taken by the Northern Ireland Office to advise on guidance interpretation?
We are always willing to work closely with the Northern Ireland civil service, but decisions during this governance gap are formalised through an Act of Parliament. I am open to discussing specific concerns and agree that restoring devolved Government is preferable for decision-making on education funding.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not confirm direct action or advice from the Northern Ireland Office on guidance interpretation.
Preferring Restored Local Governance
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister described education as the closest thing to a silver bullet and there is concern about the decrease in Northern Ireland's education budget compared to increases in other parts of the UK.
Will the Minister make the case for further investment in education in Northern Ireland, particularly regarding integration which is crucial for future success?
Integration is central to Government policy and the Belfast/Good Friday agreement. We should have serious conversations about the cost of maintaining a system where only 7% of children are educated in formal integrated schools, given the high daily costs involved.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to further investment or making the case for it; he focused on discussions about the cost and benefits of integration.
Emphasizing Need For Conversation
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Universities warned that proposed budget reductions would lead to a fundamental and dangerous impact, including cutting student places.
Will the Minister conduct an assessment of the economic impacts of reduced student placements due to budget constraints?
We are in frequent conversation with vice-chancellors and have the power to commission advice. The need for revenue raising is being considered, along with ensuring that Northern Ireland's higher education sector remains a beacon of great education.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not confirm an assessment will be conducted; instead, he emphasized conversations and the power to commission advice.
Frequent Consultations
Power To Commission
Response accuracy