As Northern Ireland begins to recover from the severe disruption caused by Storm Chandra which led to widespread power cuts, flooding, travel chaos, and more than 346 schools closing Ulster Unionist Education Spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA has once again called out the Department of Education's fragmented approach and called for urgent reform.

Jon Burrows MLA said:

"As Northern Ireland recovers from the widespread disruption caused by Storm Chandra, the Department of Education has once again demonstrated poor leadership and coordination. With more than 346 schools closed in response to severe weather warnings, I have written directly to the Education Minister to express serious concerns over the chaotic and fragmented process for school closures.

Principals across the region have contacted me in frustration, highlighting that critical safety decisions for pupils and staff are being left entirely to individual schools, without clear strategic direction or support from the Department. In the absence of central guidance, school leaders resorted to informal coordination such as regional WhatsApp groups and even higher education institutions issued advance notices. This ad-hoc approach, while understandable, is unsustainable and places an unfair burden on overstretched principals.

I am not blaming the Minister for the weather, but the current system is no longer fit for purpose. Parents deserve timely, consistent clarity to arrange childcare and work, rather than last-minute uncertainty. I have urged the Department to take responsibility for centralised decisions in future severe weather events even if they are for certain geographical areas in NI, easing pressure on school leaders and better supporting families. I will continue pressing for this essential reform."