Universities 'must discipline rioting students'
Politicians tonight demanded universities discipline students involved in the rioting in the Holylands area of Belfast on St Patrick's Day.
Members of the Stormont Assembly's Employment and Learning Committee branded the behaviour of students in the notorious student flat-land as outrageous.
They said they intended to ensure the universities pursue the trouble makers and properly discipline them.
Up to 12 people were arrested during disturbances during which police were pelted with bottles and other missiles by drunken revellers.
However, it was revealed that only one of the first five to appear in court was actually a student at either Queen's University or the University of Ulster.
Queen's said none were registered with them, but the University of Ulster said one was studying with them.
Once his charge for riotous behaviour has been dealt with by the courts he faces further action by the university.
A spokesman said a disciplinary hearing for bringing the university into disrepute would be likely to follow a conviction.
How many of those who remain to go before the courts are students is as yet unknown.
However, the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee demanded action against any who are.
Committee chair, Sue Ramsey said: "This is a disgraceful display of anti-social behaviour that shows students in a very poor light.
"Although only a minority of students were involved in this sorry episode, the reputation of all students in the area will suffer."
She said the committee supported minister Reg Empey's call for the universities' vice-chancellors to act.
Committee deputy chairman Robin Newton added: "This behaviour is unacceptable and no student involved should be left in any doubt that this committee will expect to see appropriate action from the authorities of the universities."
