Political Heavyweights Join Forces to Back Integrated Education
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris and Irish Tánaiste Micheál Martin teamed up for a high-profile reception at Belfast’s W5, championing Integrated Education. The event marked a powerful show of unity from the UK and Irish Governments as they celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement.
Unity on Display at Belfast Event
Organised by principals, alumni, and integrated education charities, the reception highlighted the commitment to Integrated Education embedded within the Good Friday Agreement. Pupils from New Bridge Integrated College and Malone Integrated College were among those attending, emphasising the real-life impact on young people.
Strong Words from Top Ministers
Chris Heaton-Harris praised the sector: “I was very encouraged to speak with teachers, pupils and the wider integrated education sector ahead of this milestone anniversary. Today’s reception signals the strong support from both Governments for the Agreement and its integrated education commitments.”
He added that the UK Government backs integrated schools through its Fresh Start programme and funding to key education bodies.
Tánaiste Micheál Martin stressed education’s role in reconciliation: “Education underpins building a shared future. Initiatives promoting integrated education were recognised in the Good Friday Agreement 25 years ago. We salute the principals and teachers who foster respect and celebrate religious and cultural diversity. The Irish Government supports this through our Reconciliation Fund.”
Voices from the Integrated Education Community
Integrated Education Fund Chair Peter Osborne said: “We’re honoured by support from both Governments and proud that these leaders made time to celebrate Integrated Education’s role in reconciliation. As the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement approaches, we remain committed to growing integrated schooling to meet demand.”
NI Council for Integrated Education CEO Roisin Marshall added: “Integrated Education has grown from 40 schools in 1998 to 70 in 2023. We’re grateful to the Tánaiste and Secretary of State for recognising how integrated education shapes a Northern Ireland where children and young people see their communities and diversity reflected in schools.”
