Ministerial go-ahead to catering college merger

The Minister for Employment and Learning Carmel Hanna has given her seal of approval to the controversial merger of the Northern Ireland Hotel and Catering College (NIHCC) with the University of Ulster (UU).

Mrs Hanna’s approval directly contradicts the decision given last month by the Department’s Employment and Learning assembly committee, which advises the minister on executive issues.

The NIHCC and the UU’s tourism and catering department will now relocate from Jordanstown to Portrush and take effect from September 2002.

Many in the tourism and hospitality business believe a centre of excellence should be based in Belfast where most highly rated bars and restaurants are located.

According to the Assembly Committee for Employment and Learning who opposed the merger, it was of key importance to ensure a large enough site was decided upon to cater for Northern Ireland’s growing sector.

Among evidence contributing to their decision considered by the committee were submissions on the proposed merger in Portrush, 80% of which were opposed to the Causeway coast site.

Responding to oral questions today in the Northern Ireland Assembly Mrs Hanna said she had considered both arguments for and against merging the two entities at the UU base.

“I have considered in detail the issues raised in relation to the merger proposal both during the recent consultation process on the issues and also via extensive correspondence from a great many interested parties, not least the Assembly Committee for Employment and Learning.

“I should say from the outset that the University of Ulster is entirely responsible for decisions regarding course provision and location. The university has advised that no students currently enrolled on courses of study will have to relocate to another campus.

“I have concluded that in light of the anticipated benefits, this merger will bring to the hotel and catering industry in Northern Ireland as a whole.”

Mrs Hanna said officials from DEL will shortly take forward the necessary administrative order to give effect to her decision from 1 August 2002.

“I am confident that the strong tradition both institutions have in supporting the development of the Northern Ireland hotel and catering industry will not only be maintained but enhanced by this merger.”

According to the department both the college and the University of Ulster view the merger as an opportunity for further development.

(AMcE)