Statement by TUV Newry and Armagh TUV candidate Keith Ratcliffe:
“Recently Jim Allister joined me on a visit to Markethill High School. In many ways, this school highlights the neglect of the controlled sector going back generations. Markethill High was built in 1959 with the intention of accommodating 200 pupils. There are currently 503 pupils on the roll books and no less than eight mobiles are being employed to house the children. Some of the mobiles are extremely old and quite frankly the school needs a re-build.
“In spite of these challenges, the school continues to excel with above average results, a dedicated staff and pupils who clearly are inspired to achieve their true potential.
“Sadly, however, when it comes to funding schools like Markethill have been the poor relation when it comes to funding for far too long. One has only to contrast the state of this school with that of St Joseph’s in Crossmaglen which was awarded £19.6 million in recent years. With Northern Ireland heading to the ballot box in a few short weeks many are questioning if Stormont is truly delivering for our schools. I would suggest the evidence shows it is not. Indeed, with the recent passage of the Integrated Education Bill the situation for schools like Markethill High looks like it may well get worse before it gets better.”