To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the Development Proposal for Strangford Integrated College, Carrowdore; (ii) when her Department will publish their decision on the Development Proposal; and (iii) why a decision on the Development Proposal is overdue.

Development Proposal (DP) 675 was published by the Education Authority (EA) on behalf of the Board of Governors (BoG) of Strangford Integrated College (IC) on 14 April 2022. The statutory consultation period in respect of the proposal concluded on 28 June 2022.

My officials are currently assessing the proposal and collating all pertinent information to provide me with a submission to assist me in taking my decision.

I am unable to provide a precise timescale as to when a decision will be taken in respect of the proposals; however, I am acutely aware of the need for a certainty in the interest of children, parents and staff.

Assessment of any DP is a complex process and requires careful consideration of all evidence to ensure decisions are taken in the best interests of all learners. In the circumstances, I do not consider that a decision is overdue.