East Belfast MLA Chris Lyttle said: “The extra places are necessary given the anticipated increase in Northern Irish students wishing to remain here to study due to the freezing of fees. I would like to pay tribute to the Employment Minister for his continued work to ensure that our students don’t have to pay unfair fees.
“As we attempt to grow our economy we will need more graduates in STEM subjects that have the right skills to encourage companies to invest in Northern Ireland.
“The Minister has also announced that he will provide extra places on top of these 700 places if further demand rises, this is a sensible decision that will ensure no unnecessary money is spent.”
ENDS