UU delays medical school Magee campus over lack of funds
The Foyle Westminster candidate said that people in Derry are being forced to pay the price for the failure of two parties to compromise and form a government.
Mr Eastwood was responding to the announcement by the Ulster University that its plans to open a graduate medical school at Magee campus have been delayed again.
The university has abandoned plans to recruit medical students to begin studying there in 2020.
In a statement, Ulster University (UU) blamed the absence of a ministerial decision on funding the school for the delay.
Said the SDLP leader: “It has been clear for a very long time that without a Health Minister in place, there will be no decision on the graduate entry medical school at Magee.
“This investment is vital for Derry. The expansion of our university is a critical part of our plans to attract new investment, give our young people the opportunity to live and work here and transform this city.
“People in Derry are being forced to pay the price for the failure of the DUP and Sinn Féin to reach a compromise, form a government and deliver the radical change that we need.
“The SDLP has made bold proposals for the reform of the petition of concern that would allow the remaining contentious issues to be voted on in the Assembly without the threat of veto.
“The SDLP is prepared to put the priorities of people in Derry and across the North first. Our primary interest is in delivering better opportunities for everyone in our community.
“Those continuing to delay delivery for this seat need to explain themselves,” added the Foyle MLA.
Tags: