Committee Takes Debate on Student Fees to Assembly Floor

The Northern Ireland Assembly called on the Minister for Employment and Learning, Dr Stephen Farry, to ensure that funding is available to maintain the excellence of Northern Ireland’s Higher Education system, and that educational opportunities for all are maximised. The motion had been put forward for debate by the Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Employment and Learning.

Committee Chairperson, Basil McCrea MLA said: “ The argument about student fees, affordability and access is of interest to both students and universities alike.

“The Department for Employment and Learning has carried out a consultation on the issues but we have yet to hear the outcome of this. Time is pressing on. Universities need a clear indication from the Minister as to his plans so they can make offers to students for the 2012 academic year.

“The Committee wanted to raise the profile of this issue and engage the whole Assembly in the debate on whether fees should rise, and what the consequences are for both sides of the argument.”

ENDS