UUP raises serious questions over axed special school summer schemes

Ulster Unionist Party Leader and Education spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA 

Fresh pressure is mounting on the Education Authority after the Ulster Unionist Party warned the cancellation of special school summer schemes raises “serious questions” — including whether the decision was justified at all.

Ulster Unionist Party Leader and Education spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA has criticised the move by the Education Authority (EA), describing it as “deeply alarming” for children and families who rely on the schemes each year.

“Not optional extras — a lifeline for families”

Mr Burrows said the schemes play a vital role for children with complex needs, while also providing essential respite for parents.

“These schemes are not optional extras. They provide vital structure, care and respite, particularly for children with complex and additional needs,” he said.

He added that he has been contacted directly by schools raising concerns about ongoing uncertainty around funding.

“As Ulster Unionist Education Spokesperson I have heard directly from a number of the schools about ongoing uncertainty around funding. That is simply unacceptable.”

Health guidance challenges basis of decision

In a significant intervention, Mr Burrows pointed to advice from the Department of Health which, he said, calls into question the reasoning behind the cancellation.

“Crucially, the Department of Health has clearly confirmed — based on clinical advice — that these schemes do not require registered nursing provision on every site,” he said.

“That raises serious questions for the DUP Education Minister. If there are other motivations behind this announcement — which some parents and carers believe there are — then they need to be publicly communicated.”

The comments are likely to intensify scrutiny on the decision, which has already sparked widespread concern among families across Northern Ireland.

Timing criticised as “lack of accountability”

Mr Burrows also criticised the timing of the announcement, highlighting that it came just as the Assembly entered Easter recess.

“For the EA to make this announcement on the eve of the Easter recess shows a clear and deliberate lack of accountability,” he said.

“Doing so less than 24 hours after the Minister visited a Special Needs School is even more concerning and inconsiderate.”

Urgent talks and support for Assembly recall

The UUP has confirmed it will support efforts to recall the Assembly to address the issue, adding to growing cross-party pressure for answers.

Mr Burrows said he is due to meet EA officials to push for urgent clarity and a resolution.

“I will be meeting EA officials today at 1pm to press for urgent clarity and a resolution that protects these essential services,” he said.

“The Ulster Unionist Party will also support Alliance’s recall petition as we seek answers from the Education Minister.”

Growing political pressure

The intervention adds to a widening political row over the cancellation of summer schemes, with mounting calls for ministers to explain how the situation arose and what steps will be taken to restore provision.

For families now facing the prospect of a summer without support, the focus is increasingly on whether urgent action can still reverse the decision — before it is too late.

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At a glance

• UUP leader Jon Burrows has criticised cancellation of summer schemes

• Schemes described as essential support for children with complex needs

• Schools have raised concerns over funding uncertainty

• Department of Health guidance said schemes do not require nurses on every site

• UUP says this raises serious questions for the Education Minister

• Timing of announcement criticised as lacking accountability

• Meeting scheduled with EA officials to seek urgent clarity

• UUP backing call to recall the Assembly

• Pressure growing for ministers to explain and restore provision