Commenting on the Key Inequalities in Education report published today by the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, Chris Keates, General Secretary of the NASUWT, the largest teachers’ union in Northern Ireland, said:

“The fact that children and young people are facing persistent and sustained barriers to achievement in education is unacceptable.

“Every child, whatever their religion, gender, or race, should have an equal opportunity to succeed, but progress to address prejudice and discrimination cannot be achieved without adequate support and funding for schools education from early years through to higher education.

“This Report highlights that inequality in education has increased over the last eight years.

The current budget crisis and huge cuts facing education and other public services will only exacerbate this trend. Poverty and inequality go hand in hand.

“This Report must serve as a wake-up call to the Northern Ireland Executive and the Westminster Government. The stark reality is that unless this is taken seriously future life chances of children and young people will irreparably damaged.”

Justin McCamphill, NASUWT National Official Northern Ireland, said:

“Ministers are storing up significant social, economic and cultural problems for the future if concerted action is not taken to address the factors driving these inequalities in education.

“The fear is that the current budget crisis in Northern Ireland will only result in deeper divisions and even more children being denied the opportunity to fulfil their potential.”