Union calls for university to suspend decision on campus nursery closure

Recently the university decided to close the facility, which currently provides care to 35 children whose parents include university staff, students and those from the local community, this July.

Management said the closure decision was brought about because of a deficit in running costs and the small percentage of students using the facility.

Following a meeting with the university’s management, Unison organiser, Nuala Conlon said: “There are a number of problems with the university’s decision and the parents and staff are the ones suffering as a result.

“It seems the university is determined to abolish facilities even when confronted with evidence that contradicts their justifications.

“The deficit is decreasing, the creche has a waiting list and parents and staff have drafted a number of proposals to not only save the creche but bring a profit to the university.

“We ask, that instead of spending £50k on paving a car park on the Jordanstown campus, that the university consults with parents and staff, listens to their ideas and pledges to save a service that is essential for students.”