Northern Ireland’s CCEA Settles Case with Former Interim Chief Executive for Around £100,000

Northern Ireland’s examinations board has paid approximately £100,000 to resolve a legal matter initiated by its former interim chief executive, as understood by BBC News NI. Margaret Farragher had alleged that she experienced discrimination based on sex, race, and age by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA). She had also put forward a claim of constructive dismissal, which is defined as being compelled to leave one’s employment against their will due to the employer’s conduct. The case was concluded without any admission of liability, but the precise sum of the settlement has not been publicly disclosed. CCEA is the entity responsible for overseeing Northern Ireland’s examination system and the curriculum for educational institutions. It receives funding from the Department of Education (DE) and functions as a non-departmental public body (NDPB) affiliated with the department. When contacted by BBC News NI, a spokesperson for CCEA stated that they could “confirm that this case has been concluded and a settlement has been reached”. “The case was settled with no admission of liability,” they further elaborated. They added, “CCEA will continue to focus on the delivery of curriculum, examinations and assessment in Northern Ireland, enabling the full potential of all learners to be achieved and recognised.” In a statement, a DE spokesperson affirmed: “The department can confirm that it was aware of the case and that it has been settled.” Ms Farragher guided CCEA through the first GCSE, BTEC, AS, and A-level summer examinations taken by students in Northern Ireland following the Covid pandemic. However, she resigned in June 2022 before students received their grades. In her resignation letter, she asserted that she had been “treated less favourably and faced ongoing harassment and bullying” within the organization. She indicated that this situation had made her position “untenable”. Ms Farragher also stated in her resignation letter that she had made CCEA officials “aware of the difficulties I have encountered since taking up the role”. When BBC News NI reached out to Ms Farragher through her legal representative regarding the settlement of her case, she released a statement. She expressed, “I am relieved the process is finally over.” She further commented, “I am grateful to the many colleagues, principals, and teacher associations for their unwavering support.” Ms Farragher currently holds the position of chief executive at the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), the organization representing the eight largest providers of qualifications in the UK.