McLaughlin: Taoiseach’s commitment to Magee key to North West expansion

SDLP Economy Spokesperson Sinead McLaughlin has welcomed comments from An Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD, where he outlined his commitment to investment and expansion at the University of Ulster in Magee, as a key part of regeneration in the North West.

These comments are on the back of a €500 million funding allocation for cross border projects in the Irish Government’s budget.

Said the Foyle MLA: “Throughout the negotiations that led to the New Decade, New Approach document, the SDLP Leader, Colum Eastwood MP pressed the British and Irish Governments to include a specific commitment to the expansion of Magee to 10,000 places and a ring fenced allocation of resource for the Medical School.”

“In spite of the funding gaps that exist in the document for other projects, we successfully secured £60 million for university expansion and an Executive commitment to 10,000 students.”

“We cannot reshape the economy of the North West without a seismic intervention on skills.

“That means committing to university expansion, creating courses that match the needs of new industries and working with the Irish Government to develop a cross border approach with Letterkenny.

“The SDLP are ready and willing to step up and play our part.

“The political commitments have been secured.

“It’s now time to deliver on our promise to a new generation.”

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