If the Irish Government is serious about cross-border co-operation, what better way to prove it than to invest in a university in Derry? Many students from the Republic are studying in Magee and UU enjoys close research co-operation with a number of third-level institutions in the Republic. Letterkenny IT has particularly close links with Magee.

A considerable number of these students come from Donegal and Sligo where there is no university provision. An expanded Magee in Derry, partly funded by the Irish Government, would provide welcome extra places for students in a number of border counties, it would help to enhance Derry's status as a university city and would underline the commitment to real cross-border co-operation.

With the Government funding part of the costs, arrangements could be made for students from the Republic to enjoy the free fees that pertain here.