Sinn Fein education spokesperson Karen Mullan MLA
The Foyle MLA said: “Procurement is one of the main issues raised with me by school Principals.
“Schools require greater flexibility in this area because the current rules are too restrictive and don’t deliver value for money.
“I have made numerous representations on this issue to the Permanent Secretary in the Department of Education and to the Education Authority.
“In May 2018 the Education Authority confirmed with me they were initiating a consultation with Principals.
“The Education Authority has now assured me that after consulting over 200 Principals immediate improvements are being made and further improvements are planned.
“I am glad to see that this issue has been recognised and that steps are being taken to give School Principals more flexibility on procurement,” she added.
