Student poltics should shift from symbolism to services - Alliance

12.00.00am GMT Thu 11th Dec 1997

Commenting on the Ulster Marketing Surveys report on Queen's Students Union revealed in the Belfast Telegraph, Alliance Party spokesman Stephen Farry has called for attention to shift from the 'politics of symbolism' to the quality of student services.

"There are undoubtedly problems of alienation amongst Protestant students at Queen's. But this is not only caused by some actions by Nationalists, but through considerable propaganda from Unionists. Alliance is firm in advocating a neutral environment for all students.

"Most students do not engage in student politics. The narrow focus on the politics of symbols is probably a deterrent to them. The UMS report clearly shows that students from all backgrounds are primarily citing reasons concerning the quality of services and facilities for not using the Students' Union. This is something that both student representatives and the University should turn their minds to."

ENDS