16 October 2025
SDLP Opposition Education Spokesperson Cara Hunter MLA has said the shocking findings of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report into the management of the schools’ estate exposes a total failure of leadership at the heart of the Department of Education and the Education Authority.
The report, published today and chaired by SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan, reveals “systemic failure” in how Northern Ireland’s school buildings are managed - with an estimated £800 million backlog in repairs and maintenance and many schools now unsafe for pupils and staff.
Ms Hunter said the SDLP will be pressing the Education Minister to act immediately on the Committee’s recommendations.
East Derry MLA Cara Hunter said:
“This report is a damning indictment of the Department of Education and the Education Authority. For years, they have presided over a system that is crumbling - literally and figuratively. Children are being taught in classrooms with leaking roofs, poor heating and outdated facilities. That is a scandal in 2025.
“The lack of strategic planning, accountability and preventative maintenance has created a crisis that will cost hundreds of millions to fix. It is the direct result of leadership paralysis and a culture of short-term thinking. Our children and teachers are the ones paying the price.
“Every child in Northern Ireland has the right to learn in a safe, modern and inclusive environment. That shouldn’t depend on your postcode or the type of school you attend. The Minister must implement a new estate management strategy now - with clear timelines, transparent oversight, and a cast-iron commitment to end this cycle of neglect.
“The SDLP will continue to hold the Minister, department and the Education Authority to account until every school is fit for purpose. Our children deserve nothing less.”