THE Board of Governors of Bunscoil an tSléibhe Dhuibh in Ballymurphy has sent a letter to the First and Deputy First Ministers and MLAs on the DUP's decision to use the Petition of Concern regarding Irish-medium Education resources.
The UUP leader Jon Burrows indicated today that he would row in behind the DUP effort to torpedo the bill which was supposed to go through the Assembly tomorrow.
The Governors say they are writing "to express our profound disappointment and deep concern regarding the use of the Petition of Concern to oppose the Irish-medium Education (Workforce Plan) Bill."
"We believe that this decision represents a step backwards for equality, good governance and children's educational rights," they say.
They describe the Bill as "not ideological" and " not about giving one community an advantage over another."
"Rather, it seeks to address a longstanding and very real practical issue: the lack of adequate planning to recruit and retain qualified teachers and staff within the Irish-medium education sector," they continue.
The letter states that Irish-medium education has experienced "sustained growth over many years" and that it is the "responsibility of the Department of Education and the Assembly to ensure that a sustainable system is in place to meet this demand."
"It is difficult to understand why any political party would seek to obstruct proper planning for the educational needs of these children," they write.
The Board adds: "a mechanism designed to protect communities is now being used to oppose the development of an education sector that is recognised in law and supported by thousands of families across the North.
"This sends a worrying message to pupils, parents and teachers within the sector. It suggests that their needs and educational rights are not being afforded equal consideration."
And the Gaelscoil is calling on all parties at Stormont to back the proposed bill.
"We urge all political parties to reconsider their position and support the Bill, so that a strong and sustainable future can be secured for Irish-medium education and for the younger generations who depend upon it."
The letter is signed by Chairperson of the Board of Governors Brónagh Fusco, and by Principal, Pilib Mistéil.
