Crackdown after St Pat's trouble

Both universities took action after the trouble

Five students were suspended by Queen's University following trouble in the Holyland district of Belfast in March.

Three students also left the University of Ulster following investigations into the St Patrick's Day trouble.

The disturbances began after police moved in to clear people off a street during celebrations marking the saint's day.

Both universities have released details of what disciplinary action was taken by them after the trouble.

In a statement, Queen's said that five students were suspended, two for a period of one year. One student was suspended for eight months and two students received a four month suspension.

Eleven students were issued with fines ranging from £75 to £250.

Disciplinary

A total of 12 students were issued with written warnings and 10 students were given advice and warning.

A spokesperson said: "Queen's University and Queen's Students' Union remain committed to working with key stakeholders to ensure students are aware of their responsibilities.

"New measures taken by the University include a revision of its disciplinary code.

"This includes the provision to fine students up to £500 for anti-social behaviour and was issued to all students at the beginning of term."

Guilty

In a statement, the University of Ulster said that 10 of its students came under police investigation with regard to the St Patrick's Day disturbances.

Three have been found guilty by the courts, and one student who was not convicted was disciplined by the University.

Another who was under PSNI investigation and was subsequently prosecuted by the PPS - withdrew from the University before his conviction.

Five further cases are still being processed.

In total 22 students were investigated by the University.

It said: "In relation to internal university investigations, 12 University of Ulster students were dealt with by the University itself.

"Eight received a verbal warning, one was given a written warning and two students have left the University. One case was dismissed due to lack of evidence but the student was warned about their future behaviour."

In total, three students have left following investigations about anti-social behaviour on St Patrick's Day 2009, the University said.

On Wednesday, Queen's University said it also called a meeting for all students last week to remind them of the new disciplinary measures and "the consequences anti-social behaviour could have on their future career".