Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has expressed his dismay following confirmation that JTI Gallaher’s has rejected pragmatic proposals from the Union which would have saved 500 jobs.
Mr Nicholson said;
“I am dismayed that JTI has rejected the pragmatic proposal from the union. This is a huge blow for the factory workers, for the Ballymena area, for the Northern Ireland economy as a whole, and for all those who have worked so hard to try and secure a future for the plant.
“There must now be immediate action from Stormont and Westminster in applying to the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund to provide support to the workers made redundant and help them find alternative employment. I will continue to do my utmost to support the factory workers going forward.”