In doing so she stressed that its key priority would be to encourage equality and raise standards in education.
Speaking in the Assembly, the Minister said: "Today, I have introduced the first of two Bills, which will bring about the most fundamental reform of our education system in over 30 years, culminating in the establishment of the Education and Skills Authority on 1 January 2010.
"The creation of a single Authority replacing nine statutory organisations will allow the administration of education to be streamlined. This will enable us to put additional funding into schools, where it will make a difference."
The Minister continued: "The RPA in education is not about tidying up administration, nor is it about cost-cutting. It focuses on raising standards in education, providing a vital public service that shapes and guides the development and life chances of our young people and building strong, cohesive communities, all of which drives and fuels our economy."
The Minister reassured Assembly members that the right of the Transferors' Representative Council (TRC) to nominate governors for controlled schools will be retained: "I recognise the importance of the contribution made by TRC for many years, and the need to ensure that their involvement continues.
"The relevant legislative provisions will be retained, and the right of the Transferors to nominate school governors will remain. It is also my intention that the composition of Boards of Governors of schools will provide equality of opportunity and reflect the diversity of the communities they serve. "
Notes to Editors
1. The proposed timetable for implementation:
- The first Bill will be introduced to the Assembly today, with the aim that it would be on the statute books before the 2009 summer recess.
- The second Bill would be introduced to the Assembly by June 2009, with the aim that it would be on the statute books by 1 January 2010 if possible, and no later than 1 April 2010.
- The substantive provisions of the first Act would be commenced on 1 January 2010, as would the provisions of the second Act, if complete.
- The Education and Skills Authority (ESA) would be established on 1 January 2010.
2. Education and Skills Authority's proposed statutory duties and functions are as:
- The planner of education;
- The supporter of education; and
- The challenger of education
3. Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9755. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
