T10. Mr Harvey asked the Minister of Education to provide an update on industrial action by support staff. (AQT 450/22-27)

I was delighted that we had significant progress on the negotiations that took place. I met the trade unions early when I took up office. I indicated my willingness to engage in partnership, because the issues that affect the trade unions affect and concern me. We therefore have had a constructive relationship. We engaged in good faith, and they called off their further planned industrial action. Subsequently, a package is now being consulted on within the trade union membership. I hope that that will be successful.

Subject to that positive response, stage 1 of the process will see an investment of £52 million this year. That will move everyone on to their new pay scale and will take effect from 1 April. I have been working with the Finance Minister on it, and we will seek Executive approval to meet that investment from the June monitoring round. The second stage of the process is a non-consolidated payment to those staff who have been in post from 1 April 2024. It goes back to April 2022. That will be in the region of £80 million and will lead to a £2,550 payment. That will be welcomed by all members. Those staff are incredibly important to the education system.

The Minister's time is up.

They are our classroom assistants, our catering staff and our bus drivers. I trust that the outworking of the ballot will be successful, and then we can implement the new arrangement.

Thank you, Minister. That concludes questions to the Minister of Education.