Burrows welcomes new emergency messaging system after Storm Amy schools communication failures

Ulster Unionist Education Spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA has welcomed the introduction of a new emergency messaging system for schools, following the Education Minister’s admission that “communication failures” took place during the handling of Storm Amy.

The recent review into the events surrounding the storm found that critical updates were not delivered quickly enough to schools, leading to widespread confusion as closure decisions were issued.

Mr Burrows said the review highlighted significant weaknesses in how information was passed from the Education Authority (EA) to school leaders.

“It became clear that critical communication between the Education Authority (EA) and school principals relied heavily on email, which led to delays between decisions being made and effectively communicated,” he said.

As concerns mounted in the aftermath of the storm, Mr Burrows said he had pushed for a modern, robust messaging system to ensure urgent updates reached schools instantly.

“As Ulster Unionist Education Spokesperson, I called for the introduction of a mobile alert system to ensure the EA can contact schools instantly during emergencies or other time critical situations.”

In response, the Education Minister has now confirmed that the EA will establish a new opt-in group messaging service for school principals.

Under the new system, parents will also receive direct text alerts informing them of school closures or other urgent developments.

Mr Burrows said he viewed the move as “a practical and positive step” that showed the importance of strong political scrutiny.

“I welcome the announcement from the Minister that the Education Authority will now establish an opt-in group messaging service for school principals. In addition, parents will receive text alerts in the event of school closures,” he said.

“This is a practical and positive step that demonstrates the value of proper scrutiny. The sooner parents have accurate information, the sooner they can make alternative arrangements.”

The new alert system is expected to be implemented ahead of future severe weather events, aiming to prevent a repeat of the confusion experienced during Storm Amy.