MULTIPLE STUDENTS have been suspended from a university in Northern Ireland for breaching coronavirus rules.
Queen's University Belfast has suspended a total of 27 students for breaching coronavirus rules which were introduced to slow the spread of Covid-19 within the community.
With both Ireland and the UK experiencing a surge in cases in recent weeks, many countries have added new measures to slow the spread and keep essential education institutions open, and these 27 students have been made an example of by the University.
"In recent days it has become apparent that a minority of students are not playing their part in terms of their off-campus behaviour," President of QUB said.In a statement addressed to students, President of QUB, Professor Ian Greer acknowledged that the last six months have been "very challenging", and said the University is "proud of the way that the majority of you have responded to these challenges, with integrity and respect for others".
"However," he continued, "in recent days it has become apparent that a minority of students are not playing their part in terms of their off-campus behaviour."
He went on to remind students of the Campus Community Pledge which means students must respect the community and follow public health advice, and warned that the University "works closely with the PSNI, Belfast City Council and other statutory bodies and will investigate every complaint we receive regarding the conduct of our students".
"Furthermore, in the current circumstances, breaches of public health guidance put your safety and that of your families and neighbours at risk.
"Students who disregard public health guidelines and host, or attend, large gatherings are not only risking their own health, and that of friends and family, but also face the possibility of substantial penalties."
Professor Greer confirmed the message to students was due to "recent behaviour off campus" and acted as a warning to "those of you who will be moving into University accommodation in the coming days".
According to the BBC, all students involved in the breaching of coronavirus rules have been suspended from Queen's University Belfast for a minimum of two weeks.
It is understood the students were given warnings by police and these Covid notices were passed on to the college.
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