DUP East Belfast MLA David Brooks has accused Sinn Fein of attempting to create disorder in Northern Ireland schools by opposing the Education Inspections Bill.

Brooks, who sits on the Education Committee, stated that Sinn Fein had initially supported the legislation within the Northern Ireland Executive before changing its position.

The MLA said independent inspections identify where schools succeed, where support is required, and whether safeguarding arrangements operate effectively.

He claimed that inspections have been interrupted for an extended period due to industrial action short of strike, depriving schools of external oversight.

Brooks said the Minister presented evidence showing the effect of these disruptions on the education system.

He described Sinn Fein's approach as playing politics with the Bill and stated that child protection should not be subject to party-political tactics.

Brooks added that the legislation does not target teachers and aims to keep inspection and safeguarding separate from industrial disputes.