As I wrote recently on the #RSAIreland web-space [ http://rsafellowship.com/group/rsaireland/forum/topics/pragmatic-vision-needed-in?xg_source=activity ], NI ‘needs a fresh face and competent hands at the ‘wheel’ of the educational policy vehicle. We need a Minister who is a ‘pragmatic visionary’ who takes a positive and engaging lead on two fronts (at least). First, s/he initiates and supports a province-wide conversation on the future possibilities for educating our young people – a conversation where people listen and reflect as well as talking and arguing for their viewpoints. And secondly, the Minister, working in constructive collaboration with her/his NI Executive colleagues and MLAs across the Assembly, oversees the creation of a policy framework that retains/builds on what is currently good and also enables transformative change towards an agreed vision for the future.’

I know my wee piece on the need for ‘pragmatic vision’ seemed to you to be a bit unfair on those MLAs who have been opposing Ruane’s ridiculous ‘rule’. That wasn’t my intention though I hold to the view that too much of the opposition from some pro-union MLAs has been ‘unimaginative and entrenched’. Be that as it may, some of that I say in that blog is, I believe, very relevant to the public conversation that needs to take place before and, especially, after the May Assembly election.