The Lagan Valley MLA has said: "On a day in which we’re pulling the Education Minister into the chamber to answer for his ongoing failure to ensure appropriate provision for SEN students, the timing of this announcement is a clear attempt to divert attention from such a crucial issue and his own culpability in the lack of action taken to this point.

“The issue here is not just the removal of guidance from the Education Authority's site, but the tone of the comments which accompanied this move. To seek to further ostracise vulnerable young people already suffering from stigma and marginalisation, and use their identities as a political football, is disgraceful. We must be unequivocal that every child deserves to feel fully included, respected, and supported appropriately within our education system.

"The complete and sudden withdrawal of this advice has created a vacuum that is not helpful for anyone – teachers, parents, schools, or pupils alike. The minister's priorities demonstrate an unwillingness to tackle the core issues on behalf of pupils, parents and teachers, while continuing to cover for his own failures by engaging in toxic culture wars."