The SDLP's criticism of the Minister's leaked plans, aimed at securing widespread support from the educational stakeholders for the phased ending of academic selection as a means of post-primary transfer, is not only disappointing, but indicative of the SDLP'S lack of political integrity.

The SDLP has been notable by its absence in the political debate over academic selection, not least in Derry, where it has gone quiet, while Sinn Fein and senior figures within the Catholic hierarchy have provided leadership to parents and educationalists in the face of attempts by some to preserve an educational system tailored to serve the interests of a small elite over those of the many.

It would appear that the SDLP have decided to cheerlead the DUP/UUP axis in their efforts to thwart the momentum for reform rather than weigh in behind those working to remove academic selection and our inherently unjust system of post-primary transfer.

The Association for Quality Education (AQE) have signalled their intention to preserve a system which consigns the majority of children to schools they, by implication, designate as not being of good 'quality', including the vast majority of children with special needs and from a poor background.

The Minister's proposals have clearly shaken the elitist grouping, headed by Kenneth Bloomfield, as evidenced by the latter's outbursts regarding the integrity of the Executive being on the line if the AQE don't get their way.

Let us hope they don't, and that this organisation fades into obscurity as those genuinely interested in developing an education system tailored to meet the interests of children, and not vested interests, wins the day.

C DONNELLY

Belfast