Minister meets MLAs to discuss I Can Centre

The Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has met with a delegation of MLAs to discuss funding for the I CAN Centre in Ballynahinch.

Speaking after the meeting, the Minister said: “I have had a constructive meeting with the delegation on the issue of funding for the I CAN Centre in Ballynahinch.

“They, like me, are concerned about the impact this issue is having on the effective provision of services for children with special educational needs in the area. I have visited the Centre and have seen for myself the work they are doing for young children. It is generally accepted that early intervention to address barriers to learning can make a difference to life chances and may result in lower spend at later stages.

“I welcome the proposal from the delegation to convene a meeting between the South Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB), the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) and the Department for Social Development (DSD) to bring about a resolution to this matter.

“I have asked my officials to liaise with the South Eastern Education and Library Board on what options and solution the Board has in responding to the needs of the children attending the I CAN Centre.”

Notes to editors:

1. In attendance at the meeting were:
   Mr Jim Shannon MP MLA, DUP
   Mr Jeffrey Donaldson MP MLA, DUP
   Representatives from the Department of Health
   Mr John McCallister MLA, UUP
   Ms Margaret Ritchie MP MLA, SDLP
   Ms Sue Ramsey MLA, SF
   Mr Kieran McCarthy MLA, Alliance
   
2. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 02891279207. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.