Disparity in varsity places

SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey has claimed that there is a disparity in university places in Londonderry and the rest of Northern Ireland.
By The Newsroom
Published 20th Jan 2010, 14:50 BST
Updated 23rd Jan 2010, 12:52 BST

Mr Ramsey, SDLP spokesman on Employment and Learning (DEL), stated his contentions to the chairperson of the Higher Education Strategy, Sir Graeme Davies in a recent meeting of the DEL Committee at Stormont.

Sir Graeme Davies was appointed by DEL Minister Sir Reg Empey as independent chairperson for the Higher Education Strategy, covering until 2020.

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Speaking after the meeting, Pat Ramsey said: "Sir Graeme has a very important role in mapping out future policy on university development in Northern Ireland.

"I made the point to him that there are serious regional disparities in Northern Ireland as regards university education. Derry, in particular, is badly underserved by university in terms of student places. This is having a very detrimental effect on our economy and jobs.

"Sir Graeme agreed that he would take account of regional needs and disparities. .

"He confirmed that he would be holding public meetings to discuss higher education. This is a great opportunity to make a string case for university development in Derry."

Related topics:SDLPNorthern Ireland