MLAs summoning university groups

Unions and management of the university have been called to a meeting with MLAs

An assembly committee has called the unions and management of Queen's University to a special meeting on plans to cut staffing and subjects.

The Employment and Learning Committee expressed concern at the plan, revealed by the BBC, and asked for the meeting.

However, that will be after a meeting of the university's Senate on Tuesday.

The university's ruling body has been asked to approve the new academic plan, which would see hundreds of jobs and some subject areas go.

It is understood the university blamed a funding shortage and the poor performance of some of its staff for the cutbacks.

However, the Department of Employment and Learning said funding for this financial year has been increased.

The university also plans to stop offering degrees in German.