The announcement that the Western Education and Library Board (WELB) are two hold two public meetings in Fermanagh to discuss their 'Pre-Consultation Document on the future of Post-Primary Education' is an indication the Board are feeling under pressure, according to Assembly Member Arlene Foster.

Mrs Foster explained: "When I accompanied the FREE (Fermanagh Rural Education Entitlement) group to Stormont, it was clear to those in the gallery listening, and to the education committee, who intensely questioned the WELB on its process, that the WELB had not engaged or adhered to a process which involves the community. It was also clear that the Board were being asked to rethink their document."

As a result, the MLA explained, the education committee asked the Board for clarification on a number of issues, including the consultation process with all the schools mentioned in the document: "The WELB are now in a difficult situation and I hope they come to their senses soon and throw out the ludicrous suggestions in the document."

Commenting on Monday's announcement by Education Minister, Catriona Ruane who spoke of the possibility of closing failing schools, Mrs Foster continued: "The sad thing is, all of the schools ear-marked in this document are successful schools. However, they are being subjected to potential closure. Then we have the Minister trying to close other schools too. The Minister had better be careful she is not out of a job, as if she continues down this path she will not have any schools left to be steward over!"

The DUP member concluded: "The WELB, we are to believe have not made their minds up. Yet, it transpires they have admitted they will not take the majority consensus in the responses. This is hardly either respecting or listening to the views of the public they apparently want to hear from."