“My aim is to get money into the hands of the classroom assistants..”

Some more detail on the Education minister and that apparently last-minute “point of principle” from this Belfast Telegraph report. Still no signs of that dose of realism..

Caitriona Ruane outlined her position and said the visit would be rescheduled: “I am disappointed the visit did not take place. I had arrived at the venue and saw what appeared to be a Nipsa picket line with official strike placards and I left immediately. I spoke personally with the organiser and explained my position on not crossing the picket line and he respected my position. The visit will be rescheduled. My aim is to get money into the hands of the classroom assistants and resolve this dispute to avoid disruption for our children.”

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