Ramsey raises job losses fears

SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey has raised concerns about employees at the NWRC being faced with compulsory redundancies.

Mr Ramsey said that "every avenue must be explored to ensure that staff at North West Regional College do not face compulsory redundancies."

The Waterside MLA said how morale at the regional college is at an all time low and how college management need to find savings in other places.

"Morale among staff in North West Regional College is so poor with the relationship between senior management and lecturers at an all time low.

"The SDLP has called for an urgent meeting with the college's board of governors in order to try to protect lecturers' posts which are presently under threat as these jobs are a fundamental front-line service.

"If savings need to be made, then the college management should ensure that every possible alternative is exhausted before any member of staff is made redundant. Mr Ramsey said.

Mr Ramsey stressed for the need to fill ICT places at the college was great as local business are struggling to fill jobs vacancies in this area.

"This institution is a vital resource for the entire North West, not only in terms of up-skilling our young people but also within the community outreach work in which it is involved.

"Other issues including admissions for ICT courses also must be examined. Presently there are a low number of students studying computers and business at the college. However, I have met with three separate employers in our city who were unable to fill ICT posts in companies here in Derry. It is therefore vital that our college provides courses which are fitting with the demands of the job market in the wider North West area." Mr Ramsey said.

Mr Ramsey also said that the Department of Education needs to do more for a vital part of the community.

"Relatively speaking, the Department of Employment and Learning budget has been protected, and the job security of staff at the college must be reflective of this and their employment made a priority.

"It is in our region's interest that services at the college are protected." Mr Ramsey said.