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The people
of Scotland and Northern Ireland can learn a great deal from each other.
Such close co-operation will enhance mutual
understanding and deliver practical
economic and social benefits.
 The
people of Scotland and Northern Ireland can learn a great deal from each
other Deputy Enterprise and Lifelong Learning Minister Allan Wilson said
today.
His words came on a visit to Northern Ireland, which will take in the
University of Ulster, Newry and Kilkeel Institute and Armagh College, as
well as meetings with the Department for Employment and Learning.
The visit comes as the prospect of the two nations being given joint
European funding for collaborative projects moves closer.
Allan Wilson said:
“Scotland’s colleges and universities are world renowned and we have
produced many famed academics and scientists in the last few centuries.
“'But we cannot simply trade on our reputation alone. We must be able learn
from activity elsewhere to continue to build on our reputation for education
excellence and continue to encourage students from outwith Scotland to come
to study at our institutions.
“Northern Ireland is one of our closest neighbours, and we are already
working together with Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to
identify potential areas for co-operation and collaboration.
“In particular, there are proposals to access European funding for
Cross-Border Co-operation over the 2007 – 2013 period. I hope that we will
be able to use this new programme to bring additional resources to the work
we do together.
“I believe that such close co-operation will enhance mutual understanding
and deliver practical economic and social benefits.
“I’m delighted to be here today to reinforce links with Northern Ireland.
I’m confident these will encourage economic development and more sustainable
communities, as well as help mutual understanding of our different cultures
and beliefs.
“The facilities I’ve seen on my visit are top class and I would actively
encourage Scottish institutions to take the time to look across the Irish
Sea to see how they do things here – and learn from them.
“Similarly, I would also welcome representatives from colleges and
universities and business in Northern Ireland to look to Scotland as a
nation to work with and share best practice.
“By working together we can raise standards and improve learning, trade and
enterprise opportunities on both sides of the Irish Sea.”
Contact: Stuart Lewis: 07796 335881
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