§ 7. Mr. Simon Mahonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what have been the average percentages of school attendances for children attending schools in Belfast, Derry and other parts of Northern Ireland in the years 1969, 1970, 1971 and the first quarter of 1972; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChannonIn Londonderry the average attendance for 1969, 1970 and 1971 was 91 per cent., 91 per cent, and 89 per cent.; for Belfast and other parts of Northern Ireland the figure was 90 per cent. for each year. For the first quarter of 1972, a time of year when the incidence of illness is higher, the figures were Belfast 87 per cent., Londonderry 85 per cent. and other parts of Northern Ireland 88 per cent.
§ Mr. MahonDoes not that reply show that we need to pay testimony to the people on both sides of the community—the teachers, the education authorities, the parents and the children—for the fact that these figures have been kept within such reasonable proportions? Is it not the case that last spring the figures were remarkably good? On behalf of my right hon. and hon. Friends and, I am sure, of the whole House, I would compliment the people of Belfast on standing up against this dreadful situation in such a way.
§ Mr. ChannonThe whole House shares that view. The highest tribute should be paid, I have written personally to every teacher in the Province, congratulating them all on their remarkable work. I am sure that is the general view of the House.
§ Rev. Ian PaisleyDoes not the Minister of State agree that there has been no substantial fall in attendances at schools throughout the troubles and that this, as the hon. Member for Bootle (Mr. Simon Mahon) said, is very creditable?
§ Mr. ChannonI entirely agree.