SDLP Foyle MLA and Economy spokesperson Sinead McLaughlin
The Foyle MLA urged DUP Minister Dodds to step up and implement a one-off payment of £500 to every Northern Ireland full-time student, including those in Further Education Colleges, who have been left behind for too long.
“It is clear that students have been virtually ignored for the duration of this pandemic and it is unacceptable.
“The results of an SDLP survey, which hundreds of students engaged with, has shown that 75% of students said they are in financial distress and 94% said this is impacting their mental health.
“This is deeply worrying and the Minister cannot avoid stepping up to help any longer.
“Yesterday in the Assembly Chamber, SDLP MLAs urged DUP Economy Minister Dodds to step up and immediately announce a Student Support Fund.
“Her responses were not good enough, as she suggested topping up the Hardship Fund at the universities, which many students cannot access and unfairly excludes those in FE colleges.
“In order to prevent any further financial distress for our young people, Minister Dodds must step up and immediately implement a one-off payment of £500 to every Northern Ireland full-time student, including those in our FE colleges, who are suffering most acutely.
“This would cost approximately £32m, just a fraction of what Minister Dodds handed back unspent in recent days.
“If the last year has taught us anything, DUP Ministers do not act unless they are forced too.
“I am urging every student, parent and anyone who cares about fair treatment for young people, to sign our petition. Make your voice heard.”
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