Economy: Mayor to host meeting with local traders

BALLYMENA’S First Citizen, Cllr Hubert Nicholl is to meet with key businesses in the borough this month to get the lowdown on how the local business sector is faring in the current economic climate.

He revealed his plan at the outset of last Monday night’s monthly meeting of Council in The Braid.

“I am saddened to learn of the closure of Montgomerys in Ballymena and Cullybackey, who have been in business in the town and Cullybackey for over 82 years,” he told the gathering.

“This confirms more than ever, the top priority of this council must be to grow and maintain jobs and in fact, during this month, I will be meeting with key businesses in this borough to discuss their economic needs and how council can assist”.

Meanwhile employment took yet another hit last week with the announcement on Thursday that 19 jobs are to go at the former O’Kane’s factory in Ballymena.

New owners, Moy Park, said, however, said the Ballymena operation remains a key site for them and said they were hopeful that those affected will take up alternative positions within the group.

Their statement read: “Over the past 18 months Moy Park has continued to invest over £11m in its Ballymena operation.