Independent Report Over Problems At De La Salle College Released

An independent report investigating problems at De La Salle College in west Belfast has been released.

Former Education Minister John O'Dowd ordered an independent investigation to be carried out after teacher absences and ongoing industrial disputes over the past year.

The report found "no single cause or factor that led to the level of deterioration in working relationships".

Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey said there needs to be clear channels established to ensure better working relationships between management, staff, pupils, parents and the wider community.

Mr Maskey said: "It is clear from the report there were many issues that faced the school and went on for far too long.

"The people who were impacted the most were the pupils and that's not good for education.

"I hope the school can move forward in a more positive manner and that De La Salle can continue to be the centre of excellence in teaching and learning that it has been for many years now.

"West Belfast is proud of the achievements that De La Salle has had over the years and no one wanted to see the problems we witnessed at the school."

Education Minister Peter Weir said: "I have now had time to consider the Independent Panel’s report and accept all of the recommendations within the report.

"I have asked my officials to work with Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) and the Education Authority to put in place suitable arrangements for overseeing implementation of the report's recommendations and work has already begun to ensure that this is done.

"As I have said before, my priority remains the pupils at the school. I am confident that the Panel’s report will provide a sound platform for moving forward in building relations within the school and the wider community, while also making a positive contribution to ensuring that all children receive a quality education experience."

(CD/MH)