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Fermanagh Schoolgirls’ Campaign Pays Off as Trousers Rule Announced
The legally binding guidelines aim to cut uniform costs and give girls the option to wear trousers in every school.
- On Friday, Northern Ireland Education Minister Paul Givan issued binding guidelines requiring schools to allow girls to wear trousers starting in the 2027/28 academic year, including during physical education and games.
- The decision marks a shift for Givan, who previously faced criticism for failing to include the provision in his own School Uniforms Bill passed through Stormont last year, forcing the Education Committee to intervene with separate legislation.
- Legally binding under the School Uniforms Act, the policy aims to ensure affordability, comfort, and practicality; Givan stated he listened to young people who argued that having a choice increases dignity and confidence.
- Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason described the move as a 'welcome but embarrassing U-turn,' while Alliance Education spokesperson Nick Mathison MLA noted that substantial public money was spent drafting legislation to fix the minister's error.
- While East Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden welcomed the guarantee of choice, campaigners warned they will monitor implementation closely as the Department of Education begins supporting schools in the transition before 2027/28.
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Girls should never have had to fight for the choice to wear trousers
East Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden has welcomed new legal guidance guaranteeing girls the option to wear trousers at school, but said it is disappointing the issue was not addressed when she sought to amend school uniform legislation earlier this year. Ms Sugden said: “I am really pleased that girls
Mandated school uniform trousers option 'an important win for girls' says Derry Councillor
The Education Minister, Paul Givan, has issued revised uniform guidelines requiring all schools to offer girls the option to wear trousers as part of their uniform, including for PE and Games, with Derry Sinn Féin Councillor Sandra Duffy describing the move as ‘an important win for girls’.
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Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution78% Center
Bias Distribution
- 78% of the sources are Center
78% Center
11%
C 78%
11%
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