McLaughlin welcomes Minister's statement of intent on Magee

Employment and Learning Minister Stephen Farry has said he will bid for funding for the expansion of the Derry campus of the University of Ulster if it meets the required criteria.

In reply to a written question from Sinn Fein Foyle MLA, Maeve McLaughlin, Mr Farry said the business case for the expansion for Magee was currently being scrutinised to ensure that it met the requirements of the Northern Ireland Guide to Expenditure Appraisal and Evaluation. 

He added: “If it does and we also obtain approval from the Department of Finance and Personnel, I would intend to submit a bid in the next Comprehensive

Spending Review to secure funding for the expansion on a sustainable basis.”

Ms McLaughlin said she was “very encouraged” by the Mr Farry’s response.

 “This is the most promising statement that the Minister has made to date and I believe it will be welcomed as progress by all of those campaigning for University expansion in Derry.”

The Foyle MLA had asked Mr Farry whether he intended to bid for funding for the expansion of Ulster University at Magee in the next Comprehensive Spending Review.