New student places for Derry will help develop health science industry in north west - McLaughlin MLA

She said: “I am very pleased, and relieved, that Ulster University has decided to relocate its health and life sciences undergraduate courses to Magee. This will expand the student population by about 850, itself providing an important boost to the economy of Derry.

“But even more important, the focus on Magee for health and life sciences teaching supports the development of this sector in Derry, which is central to the City Deal. It is essential that Derry creates a substantial health and life sciences industry, building locally owned businesses and attracting inward investment in the sector. These student places, along with the university’s research expertise, will support this.

“We wanted the postgraduate students as well as the undergraduate places to be allocated here, and I regret that these are not coming to Magee. However, I welcome Ulster University’s commitment to Magee and I hope it will be followed by additional courses and students.

“The SDLP remains determined to achieve at least 10,000 higher education student places in Derry, as the basis for a highly skilled and well-paid economy that will improve the wellbeing for all our society.”

The SDLP in Derry were among those who held meetings and made a detailed submission to the consultation on the courses.