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05/12/2007
11-plus Legislation May Be Opposed
Academic selection in Northern Ireland may not yet be dead as unionist MLAs look set to block the legislation.
Although Education Minister Caitriona Ruane said the transfer test for P7 pupils would be scrapped next year, the voting system at the Assembly effectively hands both unionists and nationalists a veto over new laws.
But a further complication is that by using "regulations" rather than bringing forward a new law, the Minister might avoid a cross-community vote – so things are likely to be complex.
Ms Ruane declined to give a straight answer when asked whether the new system would be subject to such a cross-community vote.
However. Some DUP sources have said that because passing new regulations will also require what is known as a "negative resolution" of the Assembly, the plan can still be forced to a vote.
Sinn Fein sources while acknowledging this, counter that the 11-plus is gone and will not be coming back and said that if the DUP tries to reintroduce academic selection to any new transfer criteria, Sinn Fein and other nationalists would be able to use cross-community voting to stop such a move in its tracks – resulting in deadlock.
See: Funds Warning For Grammar Schools Testing At 11-plus
(BMcC)
Although Education Minister Caitriona Ruane said the transfer test for P7 pupils would be scrapped next year, the voting system at the Assembly effectively hands both unionists and nationalists a veto over new laws.
But a further complication is that by using "regulations" rather than bringing forward a new law, the Minister might avoid a cross-community vote – so things are likely to be complex.
Ms Ruane declined to give a straight answer when asked whether the new system would be subject to such a cross-community vote.
However. Some DUP sources have said that because passing new regulations will also require what is known as a "negative resolution" of the Assembly, the plan can still be forced to a vote.
Sinn Fein sources while acknowledging this, counter that the 11-plus is gone and will not be coming back and said that if the DUP tries to reintroduce academic selection to any new transfer criteria, Sinn Fein and other nationalists would be able to use cross-community voting to stop such a move in its tracks – resulting in deadlock.
See: Funds Warning For Grammar Schools Testing At 11-plus
(BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
