Ó Donnghaile raises concerns regarding Tower St crèche
Published: 10 September, 2009
Sinn Féin representative for East Belfast Niall Ó Donnghaile has said he is 'deeply concerned' with the impending closure of crèche facilities at Tower Street College.
Speaking this afternoon Niall said,
"Since last week I have been in contact with workers in the crèche, I also spoke with the Director of the college in relation to this issue. Having engaged with both parties I contacted the Department for Employment and Learning seeking further clarification around the issue of management and responsibility for these types of crèche facilities.
"Unfortunately one week later, I have yet to receive a response from the department.
"Crèche facilities at the college are vitally important for parents who are seeking to re-enter education and training, in a very direct way the crèche allows our workforce and economy to benefit and progress.
"I have spoken with my party colleague Sue Ramsey who is the chair of the DEL committee in relation to these concerns.
"I would urge both the staff of the crèche, who provide such an important resource and the management of the college to engage in a process as soon as possible that will see as little disruption as possible caused to the young people who use these facilities and the students and staff who depend on them so greatly.
"The issue of redundancy for the workers must be resolved and I know that they have been engaging with their union on this issue, this is a matter that must be acted upon for the staff that will be seriously affected in what is already a very difficult financial climate for us all." CRÍOCH
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