Progress Needed On L'Derry University Expansion - Sinn Fein

A Sinn Fein MP has called for progress on "groundbreaking projects" such as the expansion of Ulster University's Magee campus and the establishment of a medical school in L'Derry, as key features to transforming the north West region.

Foyle MP Elisha McCallion was speaking after a Sinn Fein delegation met with the Head of the Civil Service, David Sterling, and the Department for Economy in Belfast on Wednesday 05 December.

She said the issue has been her priority since election, in order to "begin to address decades of inequality and under-investment in the region. 

"I pressed officials today on the need to move forward with the expansion of Magee University, with the next step being the establishment of a graduate entry medical school to put Magee University on the map as a centre of excellence. 

"I am disappointed that the timeframe has been delayed by one year, but we must work towards the September 2020 date for first student intake."

Ulster University's Vice Chancellor Paddy Nixon claimed last month that almost £5million had already been invested in the facility, but the process was being stalled due to a lack of ministerial decision making.

He added that the university was "deeply frustrated" after a lot of hard work was carried out to get the staff and curriculum in place.

"The university's expansion is a key element to unlocking the city's unique circumstances and reaching its full economic potential as set out in the Strategic Growth Plan, produced by and for the people of the north west," Mrs McCallion continued.

"I will continue to press for delivery of these crucial projects and have committed to meeting again with the Head of the Civil Service early in the new year to ensure it remains firm on the agenda. 

"I would again urge all political and civic leaders and other stakeholders in this city to unite behind the drive to secure the full expansion of Magee university."



(JG)