A Sinn Féin bill aimed at workforce planning for Irish-medium education passed its second stage in the Northern Ireland Assembly.

The legislation comes from the party's education spokesperson, West Belfast MLA Paul Sheehan.

Sheehan stated that the bill represents progress toward a full workforce strategy for the sector.

He pointed out that Irish-medium schools face recruitment challenges for teachers, special educational needs support staff, and early years professionals despite sector growth.

The measure requires the Department of Education to develop plans based on evidence, with defined targets and accountability mechanisms.

Sheehan noted attempts by the DUP and others to block the bill's advancement.

Sinn Féin plans to collaborate with other Assembly members to complete the legislation.