‘Seize the moment’ to deliver on school uniform legislation

‘Seize the moment’ to deliver on school uniform legislation

4 June 2025

LEGISLATION to address the spiralling cost of school uniforms is welcome, but does not go far enough, South Down MLA Cathy Mason has warned.

She said families waited far too long for action on the issue and that every summer, there are the same heart-breaking stories with parents going without, putting themselves into debt “or facing impossible choices just to send their children to school in the right clothes”.

Mrs Mason said a recent Irish League of Credit Unions report found that parents in the are spending over £300 per child on back-to-school costs, with uniforms being one of the single biggest burdens.

“This isn’t sustainable, and we cannot allow it to continue,” she declared.

“Sinn Fein welcomes that Education Minister Paul Givan has brought forward legislation on this. It’s long overdue and it’s good to see the DUP finally acknowledging this as an issue.”

But Mrs Mason contended that Mr Givan’s plan doesn’t go far enough, with her party working hard with others to strengthen the legislation.

She continued: “We’ve developed proposals designed to deliver what families actually need — affordability, flexibility and inclusion for every child.

“Some schools have been proactive, leading the charge and making the effort to support their children and parents. Unfortunately, other schools have fallen  short. Sinn Féin wants fairness for all families.”

Mrs Mason said this means reducing uniform prices, stopping so-called exclusive supplier deals, requiring schools to offer High Street options, limiting branded items and strengthening the guidance that’s given to schools on this issue.

“It is also an opportunity to deal with rights and equality, so that no girl is told she can’t wear trousers if that’s what she’s comfortable in,” said the MLA.

Mrs Mason said the new legislation is an opportunity to “lift a real financial weight off families’ shoulders” and she wants to work constructively with all parties to make it strong, fair, and effective.

She added: “Let’s seize this moment and finally deliver legislation that ends the school uniform rip off.”