Group to protect at risk jobs

Group to protect at risk jobs

DOWN Council has been urged to forge ahead with plans to set up a new group aimed at halting the erosion of public sector jobs from the district.

Politicians are concerned that Downpatrick is losing its status as a recognised centre for public sector excellence and want to do all they can to not only retain existing posts, but attract new staff.

Current attention is on plans by the Social Security Agency to move staff from its offices in Downpatrick, Newcastle and Ballynahinch to new benefit processing centres in Newry and Armagh.

The move, which has angered staff and their trade union representatives, will leave only ‘front office’ staff at the Agency’s three bases in the district.

During a public meeting in Downpatrick a number of weeks ago it was agreed to set up a taskforce to fight the Social Security Agency proposal, liaise with local MPs and Assembly members and draw in expertise from other quarters to “make the strongest possible case” for the retention of public sector jobs.

Council chairman Mickey Coogan — who suggested the formation of the taskforce — said at the local authority’s meeting on Monday night that it needs to meet soon.

“Time is not on our side on this issue and people who signed up to be involved must come forward, including members of the local business community,” he said.

“We also need the trade unions representing Social Security Agency staff to get involved as well. We need to agree our aims and objectives and move forward together.”