Sinn Féin MLA Pádraig Delargy has expressed his concern about the proposed redundancy scheme by numerous Further Education Colleges as a result of savage Tory cuts to the education budget.

The party’s Further and Higher Education spokesperson said:

”The proposed redundancy scheme across various Further Education Colleges is extremely concerning.

”These cuts will mean the loss of many hard-working staff who are at the forefront of training the next generation of workers and entrepreneurs. 

”Tory cuts and a lack of investment in the Further and Higher Education sector have meant colleges are experiencing significant financial pressures.  

“I will engage with FE Colleges and trade unions in the time ahead and will make the case that all steps should be taken to avoid redundancy and to secure these jobs. 

”We need an Executive restored immediately to ensure that the Further and Higher Education sector is funded properly. Local parties need to work together to ensure that front-line services are maintained.”