Dundee East MSP, Shona Robison and SNP President, Ian Hudghton MEP met with staff representatives from the Language School of Dundee University to hear their concerns about the proposed staff cuts at the institute.

Commenting on the meeting, Shona said:

"I was very impressed by what the staff reps had to say and tell us.  They had some good and innovative ideas on how to develop the school and for potential future funding opportunities.

"It is clear that they need to be given the space to pursue their ideas without having the constant threat of the axe hanging over them.

"These staff members are a valuable asset to the city and I will continue to support them in any way that I can." Adding his support to the Department's campaign to stop the cuts, Ian

Hudghton MEP said:

"Reducing the opportunities to learn different languages does not make sense at a time when more and more people travel abroad and develop business links with other countries in Europe and beyond.

"The fact that the department teaches 16 languages to 1000 students from the university and general public is incredibly impressive and is obviously a facility that is effectively used.

"Tayside needs this centre for languages to continue and my SNP colleagues and I will continue to fight against any cuts."