Minister condemns behaviour of Holyland students
18 March 2009
Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, has expressed his disgust at the total lack of respect shown by some students living in the Holylands area of Belfast yesterday.
The Minister visited the Holylands after more than 12 people were arrested following disturbances during the St Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Sir Reg said: “I toured the area last night and I am utterly horrified by the damage that has been done by these students. Their actions have shown complete and utter contempt for the community in which they live.
“The behaviour of the students, who are benefiting from being at top universities and are set to be amongst the highest earners in our society, has turned the area into a war zone. My Department is investing millions of pounds in higher education to ensure that we give our young people every opportunity to excel in their chosen field, but these actions are the actions of those with no regard for the general public.”
The Minister continued: “This cannot be allowed to continue with impunity. I have placed a call to both Vice Chancellors to ask them what actions they are taking to ensure that this never happens again.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- All media enquiries to Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on telephone 028 9025 7872. Outside office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
