Education Service Newsletter - February 2024
Devolved government restored
On 3 Feb 2024, MLAs gathered in the Assembly Chamber to appoint a Speaker and form a new Northern Ireland Executive. So far, debates have addressed a wide range of issues including: public finances; affordable childcare; women’s health; Lough Neagh; hospital waiting list and support for children with special educational needs.
Read Official Reports (niassembly.gov.uk) to find out more.
Information about Committees can be found here Committees of the Northern Ireland Assembly (niassembly.gov.uk)
‘Bill to Law’ event
This month, 60 students from 6 schools (Abbey Community College, Ashfield Girls’ High School, Bangor Academy, Methodist College Belfast, Rathmore Grammar School and Rockport School) took part in an event which examined how laws are made.
Guest speakers included Dame Brenda King, Attorney General for Northern Ireland; Alex Gordon, First Legislative Counsel and Paula Bradshaw MLA. Students also got the opportunity to discuss their ideas for bills with a range of MLAs in roundtable sessions.
Book an online session or a visit to Parliament Buildings
Contact us to book an online session or to arrange a visit to Parliament Buildings, Stormont. Pupils will learn about the Assembly: how laws are made; the difference between the Assembly and Executive, and how young people can influence decision making. They will take part in a voting and/or debating activity and visit the Assembly and Senate Chambers (subject to Assembly Business). We can include an MLA Q&A on request.
Email Education.Service@niassembly.gov.uk Tel: 028 9052 1833 / 9052 1896