Foyle assemblywomen Martina Anderson has welcomed the latest moves towards the establishment of a science park in Derry in partnership with Magee University.

The Sinn Féin MLA said: "I welcome confirmation by Dean of Academic Development at Magee, Prof Deirdre Heenan that the Science Park is now actively examining possible developments in Derry in conjunction with the university."

She said progress was "long overdue on this issue".

"The Science Park was established in Belfast in 1999 in partnership with the two universities and supported by the Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment. Its stated aim was to create a self sustaining, internationally recognised knowledge-based facility," said Ms Anderson.

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The park has proved a success in Belfast and a commitment was also made to establish satellite centres across Northern Ireland, including Derry.

"However, almost ten years on, the Derry centre has still not materialized which is why I raised this matter directly with the Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster," said Ms Anderson.

"It is my understanding that her Department is now examining the feasibility of a Derry centre as part of their business plan for the year ahead."

The nationalist MLA said she would continue to lobby for this commitment to be honoured, which is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the local economy, and play a key role in taking forward the planned expansion of Magee University.

"It would provide a hub and support for small and medium high-tech industries as well as employment opportunities for Magee graduates," added Ms Anderson.

(PR/JM)