Pressure mounting on Ruane following damning Irish News survey

12.06.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 30th Apr 2008

Alliance Education Spokesperson Trevor Lunn MLA

Alliance Education Spokesperson Trevor Lunn MLA has stated he is not surprised at statistics showing that two thirds of primary head teachers have no confidence in Caitríona Ruane on the 11-plus. He said that she has caused total confusion and her confrontational approach has alienated many. His comments follow today's publication of the survey on academic selection in the Irish News.

The Lagan Valley MLA stated: "I am not surprised by these statistics because I believe that the Minister has left not only head teachers, but teachers, parents and pupils totally confused on future plans.

"Alliance supports her in scrapping the 11-plus but her confrontational approach and the total lack of clarity she has displayed has alienated many. She has done herself no favours and has been her own worst enemy.

"We will keep the pressure on Caitríona Ruane to deliver urgently because the current impasse is totally unacceptable. Alliance is being constructive on this; however, the Minister is not and she must change her approach if she wants to make progress."

ENDS