To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the Development Proposal for Mid Down Integrated College; (ii) when her Department will make a decision on the Development Proposal; and (iii) why the Development Proposal is overdue.

Development Proposals (DP) 668 - Blackwater Integrated College (IC) will discontinue with effect from 31 August 2023 – and 667 - Establish a new non-selective, 11-18, co-educational grant maintained integrated post primary school in the Mid Down area with effect from 1 September 2023, or as soon as possible thereafter. The school will have an enrolment number of 600 pupils and an admission number of 100 pupils – linked proposals published on 20 May 2021. The statutory objection period for both proposals ended on 16 September 2021.

The proposals have attracted significant representation and correspondence during the objection period, which my officials are currently assessing alongside all other pertinent information and evidence to provide me with a submission to assist me in taking my decision.

The 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. Given the extent of representation in respect of these proposals and the need to ensure that all views that have been expressed are considered and assessed, I do not consider that a decision is overdue. I do, however, appreciate the need for certainty in the interests of children, parents and staff