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Approximately half of the female students attending Craigavon Integrated College regularly opt to wear trousers as part of their school attire, according to Murray. She highlighted that this choice is especially beneficial during the colder months, as many pupils walk to school and appreciate the practicality trousers provide. Murray also noted that permitting girls to wear trousers aligns with period dignity recommendations, helping them feel more confident by allowing greater flexibility in their uniform options.
Northern Ireland already has legislation regulating school uniforms, which, as Givan previously mentioned, grants girls the legal right to challenge their schools regarding uniform policies. Despite this, members of the Education Committee had urged the minister to take further action to support students in this area. Some assembly members have criticized Givan, accusing him of reversing his stance and pointing out that significant public funds were spent drafting new legislation to correct what they saw as a misjudgment.
This issue gained legislative attention last year when a new law addressing the cost of school uniforms was passed in Northern Ireland. The updated uniform guidelines, which now legally require schools to allow girls to wear trousers if requested, are governed by the School Uniforms Act. Givan, speaking on BBC Radio Ulster’s The Nolan Show, explained that these changes would be effective immediately in preparation for the next academic year. He clarified that there is no need for further assembly approval for this update, and communication will be sent to schools to enforce the policy from the upcoming school term.
The minister also noted that schools will have a grace period until the 2026/27 academic year to adapt their uniform policies accordingly. Furthermore, the new guidelines extend to physical education, ensuring girls can wear trousers during PE and Games. Nick Mathison, Alliance’s education spokesperson and chair of the Education Committee, echoed accusations of a “U-turn” by Givan while thanking young campaigners for their advocacy. Mathison expressed frustration over the time taken to implement the change and the funds spent on legislative amendments, which he argued could have been avoided. The Department of Education has confirmed through a statement that the legally binding guidelines require schools to offer girls the choice to wear trousers year-round, emphasizing affordability, comfort, practicality, and sustainability as core principles of the School Uniforms Act
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