24 June 2026

SDLP Opposition Economy Spokesperson Sinéad McLaughlin MLA has expressed concern after a senior Department for the Economy official indicated that the target of expanding Magee University to 10,000 students by 2032 is now unlikely to be met.

Foyle MLA Sinéad McLaughlin said:

"The expansion of Magee to 10,000 students has long been recognised as one of the most important economic development projects for the North West. It was a commitment in New Decade, New Approach and remains a commitment within the Programme for Government. That is why it is deeply concerning to hear senior officials suggest that the 2032 target is now under review and unlikely to be achieved.

"This uncertainty comes at a time when Ulster University is proceeding with 450 redundancies across its campuses and when the wider higher education sector is facing significant financial pressures. Just as concerning were the comments from the Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, who made clear that the expansion of Magee will not be viable if the current funding arrangements for higher education remain unsustainable. He also indicated that he is not reassured that these issues will be addressed and that major capital projects, including City Deal investments, may need to be reviewed in light of the new fiscal reality facing the university sector.

"Taken together, these warnings should be a wake-up call for the Economy Minister and her Department. The reality is that the Department has been aware of the funding challenges facing our universities for years. Yet we are now in a position where one of the Executive's flagship commitments is being called into question. Magee is not simply a university campus. Its expansion is central to attracting investment, developing skills, retaining young people and delivering regional balance across Northern Ireland.

"This project remains deliverable. There is still time to get it back on track. But that will only happen if the Minister starts moving at pace to address the crisis facing higher education and provides universities with the sustainable funding model they have been calling for. The people of the North West have heard promises about Magee for decades. They now need certainty, leadership and a credible plan to ensure this commitment is finally delivered."