Long rebukes Minister over Knockbreda Primary snub

1.37.26pm GMT Thu 21st Dec 2006

Castlereagh Alliance Councillor, Michael Long

Castlereagh Alliance Councillor Michael Long has slammed the Education Minister, Maria Eagle's decision not to allow Knockbreda Primary School transform to integrated status.

Castlereagh Alliance Councillor Michael Long stated: "I cannot comprehend why the Minister has come to the conclusion that Knockbreda Primary School should be denied the chance to have integrated status.

Michael Long said: "The Minister has denied the will of local parents who wanted to see the school gain integrated status.

"There absolutely is no reason for the government to refuse to allow this transformation.

"If people did not know otherwise, such moves would suggest that the government is dead set against creating a shared future in Northern Ireland.

"The Education Minister is out of step with the whole idea of a shared future."

ENDS