McNulty welcomes progress to replace NI General Teaching Council

He said: "Back in 2021, the SDLP was stating that the General Teaching Council was beyond repair. There were issues around teachers’ registration applications not being processed and child safeguarding. There was infighting and a toxic environment within the organisation.

"In December 2021, the then Minister Michelle McIlveen rightly moved to dissolved the GTC. Now, some 40 months later, Minister Givan has finally submitted a plan to the Executive. I hope that they can agree to table legislation later this year.

"Of course, the SDLP retain the right to scrutinise the legislation when we see it, and amend if we see fit, but at least we finally are seeing some progress.

“Teachers play a vital role in our society through the education and development of our young people. They deserve a professional body that supports and empowers them.”