Education Minister welcomes Judicial Review outcome on post-primary education in Fermanagh

Education Minister, John O'Dowd has welcomed Mr Justice Colton’s decision to reject the judicial review on all grounds and uphold his decision to approve the amalgamation of Collegiate Grammar School and Portora Royal School.

Minister O’Dowd said:

“My focus has always been the needs of children and young people in the Enniskillen and surrounding areas, not on institutions. Maintaining a network of sustainable schools, capable of providing quality education and access to a balanced and broad curriculum, including meeting the Entitlement Framework statutory requirements, is essential.

“I believe this decision is the right one for the young people of Enniskillen and I wish all those tasked with taking these plans forward well as they establish the new school.”

Notes to editors: 

1. The Western Education and Library Board (WELB) published Development Proposals (DPs) No 260, 261, 262 on 14 May 2014, proposing that Collegiate Grammar School (GS) and Portora Royal School (RS) should amalgamate with effect from 1 September 2015, or as soon as possible thereafter. The WELB has stated that, at that time, both schools will close and a new amalgamated school will open. The two-month objection period ended on 14 July 2014.
2. Education Minister, John O'Dowd approved the amalgamation of Collegiate Grammar School and Portora Royal School on 28 November 2014.
3. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.

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