Ulster University announced proposals placing up to 450 jobs at risk. The university tried to safeguard these positions while awaiting a funding agreement from the Department for the Economy that did not occur.

Green Party NI leader Mal O'Hara accused the department of failing the staff. He described the absence of sustainable funding as a political decision with direct impacts on 450 workers and their families.

O'Hara called on Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald to present a concrete plan for higher education to the Northern Ireland Assembly. He specified that the plan should exclude further reviews or vague statements.

The Green Party stressed the need for trade unions to participate fully in the upcoming consultation. They demanded a real role for workers and no compulsory redundancies if voluntary options prove insufficient.

O'Hara highlighted university spending on its new Belfast campus and overseas meetings with officials. The party contrasted this with the lack of funds for job security despite availability for other initiatives.

Green Party NI demanded complete transparency during the consultation and an immediate funding arrangement to bolster higher education.