6 July 2026

SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood has said the Executive must live up to its commitment to growing Ulster University.

He was speaking after widespread reports the expansion in student numbers is in jeopardy.

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said:

“During the New Decade, New Approach negotiations I made the expansion of Magee a red line. I know what this means to the people of Derry, not just in terms of attracting students and giving a boost to our economy, but in writing a historic wrong that still rankles today.

“I welcome the work that has been done to date by the taskforce, but I am concerned that the expansion of Magee is no longer a priority for Stormont. While Ministers twiddle their thumbs, it’s people here in Derry that lose out.

“My focus has always been on delivering a university that puts our city on the map, celebrating what we have and building upon it to develop Derry on an all island basis. This Executive and the UK Governments must live up to their promises and expand Magee to 10,000 students, We won’t accept anything less.”