Alliance MLA and member of Stormont’s Education Committee, Michelle Guy, has welcomed the Committee’s decision to advance a single-issue bill that would legislate for female pupils to be given the choice of wearing trousers as part of their school uniform.

Ms Guy expressed disappointment that the legislative route was necessary, noting that the Education Minister could have addressed this specific issue directly through his own uniform bill and associated guidance.

"I am glad the Education Committee are taking forward this single issue bill. In some ways it is incredibly disappointing we are forced into this position as the Education Minister could have done this as part of his uniform bill and guidance," she said. The MLA highlighted that the Committee had heard directly from young women and relevant organisations on why this change is essential. The reasons provided ranged from concerns over dignity, safety, comfort, and practicality in the modern context.

"In 2025, this shouldn't even be a discussion," Ms Guy stated, reinforcing the view that the option for girls to wear trousers should already be standard practice.

Ms Guy still holds out hope that the Education Minister will intervene to resolve the matter more quickly than a new law would allow: "I am still hopeful that the Education Minister simply admits he has made a mistake and chooses to update the uniform guidelines as opposed to the Committee having to bring forward legislation."

She concluded by emphasising the importance of the issue, despite it being dismissed by some: "This may seem like a small issue to some, but it has a major impact on the everyday lives of many young women and girls."