Sinn Féin MLA Pádraig Delargy has welcomed the recent decision by the Economy Minister to increase Higher Education maintenance loans and grants.

Pádraig Delargy said: "Students are facing financial pressures and it is welcome news that the Economy Minister has announced maximum maintenance grants and loans are receiving an inflationary uplift, increasing by 2.7%.

"This follows on from last year's 20% uplift to maximum maintenance loans.

"These grants and loans help students to stay in education during difficult financial times." The party's economy spokesperson also stated that the upcoming Good Jobs Bill will deliver clear advantages for students who are currently in employment.

"Many students work to support their studies and as such the introduction of the Good Jobs Bill will also benefit them, particularly the measure of ensuring tips, gratuities and service charges are passed on in full.

"Ending zero-hours contracts by offering those who regularly work set patterns the right to move to banded hours contracts is another measure that will benefit student workers.

"These are practical steps to help students with the cost of living, remain in education and progress into good jobs."