SDLP Education Spokesperson Daniel McCrossan has questioned whether or not education is a priority for Finance Minister Conor Murphy.
Mr McCrossan raised his concerns after the Minister allocated just £39m of £116m requested by the Department of Education in his June monitoring round.
The West Tyrone MLA said:
“The Finance Minister had an opportunity to show that he is committed to helping schools get back on a level footing after an incredibly tough period for staff and pupils alike. Even before the coronavirus pandemic schools across the North were at breaking point and facing difficult decisions as they struggled to make ends meet.
“Over a decade ago our schools suffered savage cuts, with almost 10% being wiped from their budgets. This deficit has never been restored and it has ensured we have the most underfunded schools on these islands.
“The Minister had the chance this week to take action, but he chose not to. All schools and parents want is a level playing field for our children and I will continue to lobby to ensure every child gets the education they deserve.”