Nicola Grant Workers Party Newry representative has described the school uniform bill as a missed opportunity to do something positive to relieve the burden placed on parents. Some who may have several children attending primary and secondary schools.
“The bill for all its hype when out for consultation does not substantially alter the status quo. Schools will still have the authority to select the type of uniforms , been given the choice of suppliers, and only need to consult with parents. Nicola says none of these limited options address the real issues of the future and current financial burden on those families living in poverty, or their having to top up the school uniform grants, that in some cases might only cover the cost of a single item depending on the choice of school.”
“The Bill merely tinkers with the status quo and will do nothing to mitigate the burden on working class families. A distinct corporate style uniform adds no value to the education of our children, it provides no meaningful learning or teaching tool.”
“If schools want to differentiate it could be easily done by a school tie and a school badge. Nicola continued the workers party is not opposed to school uniforms. But we are opposed to expensive corporate style uniforms which should have no place in our public education system.”
“These types of expensive uniforms close school doors to many families, they don’t open them. Given the levels of poverty deprivation and the fact that 25% of our children live in poverty. The Minister has definitely missed an important opportunity to make a change. It would seem that being able to buy school uniforms from your local supermarket is not the Minister’s cup of tea either.”
ENDS
CLANRYE NEWS 