Debate contribution: Education Inspections Bill: Second Stage

Debate contribution by Ms Cara Hunter on 1 June 2026.

MLA: Ms Cara Hunter
Party at the time: Social Democratic and Labour Party
Date: 1 June 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Executive Committee Business
Heading: Education Inspections Bill: Second Stage
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5581549

Text

I agree with the Member. There are differing beliefs on this issue, but, ultimately, it comes back to the fact that our teachers' workload is unfathomable. I was at that UNISON event and spoke to classroom assistants who are picking up so much work. Teachers and classroom assistants are overwhelmed. It is important to pare that back. We are unapologetic about voting the Bill down today, given the needs of our teachers.
You cannot compel the openness, honesty and professional engagement that make inspection genuinely valuable, because that requires trust. Right now, our teachers feel that that trust has to be earned. They feel really uncomfortable that their workers' rights may be impeded by clause 3. I represent teachers, parents and families in East Derry who want the same thing as the Minister wants, which is a world-class education for their students. The families to whom I speak know the pressure that teachers are under. There are unmet needs in our education system. The SDLP's position is straightforward. We support inspection, accountability and the principle that every school in Northern Ireland should be able to demonstrate the quality of what it offers, but we will not support legislation that treats a workforce crisis — a burnt-out workforce — as a compliance problem. We feel strongly that that punishes professionals who are already at breaking point. The Bill has been introduced, yet we have had an explicit objection from the very people on whom it would impact most — our teachers. The Minister should listen to some of the different perspectives that have been expressed today. It is important to finish on this note. It does not have to be a case of child safeguarding or teachers getting their workers' rights: both can be done. We can find a pathway there. It is important to find balance in the debate.

309 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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