SDLP Foyleside Councillor Mary Durkan
Miss Durkan said, “It is scandalous that Ulster University students who left their university accommodation weeks ago due to changes to their circumstances are still fighting against financial penalties.
“Queen’s University have ensured that students who had to terminate their lease early would not be financially penalised.
“The same approach has not as yet been applied to their counterparts in Ulster University.
“Similar measures had to be applied by universities last March due to the unprecedented circumstances.
“Students needs have been side-lined in recent months.
“A lot of the issues arising now could have been addressed and should have been addressed before the opening of the new academic year.
“Instead the interests and incomes of institutions and landlords have been protected and prioritised over students.”
Miss Durkan added: “I have heard from a number of students who are extremely anxious at the prospect of struggling to pay rent for accommodation not in use.
“Due to the spread of Covid-19, this academic year has been disrupted for everyone and it has been inevitable that students have returned to their homes with the delivery of online courses and no on-campus teaching.
“Indeed, some of the students are self-isolating due to underlying health conditions. Others have returned home to assume caring roles.
“Many students cannot access part-time employment at present. The whole uncertainty around the situation is stressful enough without the added financial burden of rent for an unoccupied flat.
“I have made specific representations directly to senior management at Ulster University on the student accommodation issue.
“The drift in responding to student needs in this regard is unacceptable.
“Of course this is only one of many issues affecting our students.
“I would urge everyone to support the wider NUS-USI Students Deserve Better campaign.”
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