15 November 2001 Edition
McGuinness backs diversity
Education Minister Martin McGuinness has announced a £700,000 package and a network of five teachers to provide translation and support services to pupils from ethnic communities throughout the North.
The package was unveiled at a conference on Thursday 9 November on racial equality in education where the minister backed "zero tolerance of bigotry in schools". The conference, hosted by the Equality Commission and the Department of Education, was told that the teachers will provide support to pupils with English as a second language.
"Racism exists across all age groups and all sectors of our society," said McGuinness. "But a new society is emerging and we have the opportunity to tackle racism within the context of a set of unique political and social changes. My department is already working in a partnership with school and youth service staff, parents and young people to fulfil this duty."
The package was unveiled at a conference on Thursday 9 November on racial equality in education where the minister backed "zero tolerance of bigotry in schools". The conference, hosted by the Equality Commission and the Department of Education, was told that the teachers will provide support to pupils with English as a second language.
"Racism exists across all age groups and all sectors of our society," said McGuinness. "But a new society is emerging and we have the opportunity to tackle racism within the context of a set of unique political and social changes. My department is already working in a partnership with school and youth service staff, parents and young people to fulfil this duty."