North Antrim MP Jim Allister says Coleraine 'fast becoming the poor relation' in Ulster University structure
The North Antrim MP Jim Allister has said that the Coleraine campus of Ulster University is ‘fast becoming the poor relation’ of the establishment.
The TUV leader made the comment saying he shared the concerns of constituents working at the Coleraine campus and students studying there “about the longterm commitment to this vital part of our educational infrastructure”.
Last month Ulster University announced plans to make up to 450 staff redundant as it needs to make savings of about £25m.
Mr Allister said: “Coleraine, it seems to me, is fast becoming the poor relation within Ulster University.
"We have seen eye-watering overspend on the Belfast campus and endless promotion of Magee, but the aged site at Coleraine seems only to qualify for neglect.
“Now with redundancies being sought, I will be watching carefully to see if Coleraine is again the loser!”
TUV Chairman Allister Kyle, who sits on Causeway Coast and Glens Council, added his concerns for Coleraine and its campus.
“Ever since the Magee campus became the main political priority, a move that I think is highly questionable, Coleraine has been left lagging behind,” he said.
"We just can't afford to let this campus slide any further, especially when it brings so much value to the town and the local district.”
Referring to Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald, he added: "Even though the Sinn Féin Economy Minister represents East Londonderry, I have absolutely no confidence that she will step in to balance things out or stop them from favoring Magee."