To ask the Minister of Education for an update on engagement with stakeholders regarding education provision in South Belfast.

The planning of education provision is for the managing authorities (the Education Authority (EA) / the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS)) supported by the sectoral body representatives. In their work to shape provision they engage extensively in consultation and discussion with a wide range of stakeholders.

The publication of a Development Proposal (DP) is the point of the area planning process at which the Department becomes engaged. When this happens, anyone with an interest in a proposal may make representations to my Department during the statutory objection period.

There are a number of published DPs that are currently in the statutory objection period which are of relevance to provision in the south and Greater Belfast areas. It is common for me to agree to requests to meet to hear the views of those with interest in proposals under those arrangements.

I should clarify, however, that in all instances I can only listen to views expressed to me. I cannot comment on the merits or details of such proposals as I will take decisions on them when all evidence has been collated and recommendations formed for my consideration.