Education Minister Paul Givan has responded to the news that a man has been charged with harassment. The Minister confirmed that on 07 February, he reported a series of malicious emails concerning Lisneal College to the police. "The receipt of malicious or abusive emails is not acceptable," Givan stated. "The harassment of public representatives undermines democracy and discourages others from putting themselves forward for public life. I am well used to political crossfire however the emails that I received over the past few weeks have been based on inaccurate information. This is to be condemned."

Givan emphasised the right of public representatives to conduct their work without harassment. He expressed disappointment that, despite repeated explanations that Minor Works projects have been carried out at schools across Northern Ireland according to normal procedures, some continue to suggest his involvement in the decision-making process and allege a lack of transparency.

"Today, I'll be doing my job as always," Givan concluded. "I will not be bullied or deterred from serving the people of Northern Ireland as Education Minister."