Earlier this year, Mr Mathison and a number of Special School principals highlighted their significant concerns to the Health Minister about the withdrawal of nursing provision in schools. Following this, the Minister commissioned a review that would inform understanding of the needs of children with complex medical needs in special schools.
 
"I, along with colleague Michelle Guy and special school principals, met with the Health Minister earlier this year to raise significant concerns following the withdrawal and planned withdrawal of nursing provision in special schools across Northern Ireland," the Strangford MLA said.
 
"Following this engagement, the Minister commissioned a review that was intended to inform understanding of the needs of children with complex medical needs in special schools.
 
"This report has given no clarity on whether nursing provision will be restored or protected. Both parents and principals were left in limbo for almost a year and now, following the publication of the report, they are no clearer on what the Minister will do.
 
"Significant questions remain regarding the future of nursing provision in special schools and I urge the Health Minister to provide urgent clarity on how he will address these. This is an absolutely vital service which provides life-saving interventions. That cannot be underestimated and full nursing provision in special schools must be reinstated as soon as possible."