Services share plan could bring local jobs

AROUND 100 jobs could be created in Ballymena if plans to share services in Health and Social Care in the province are realised.

The proposals on the location of shared services for finance (payments & income), human resources (recruitment & selection) and payroll, travel and subsistence. are currently out to consultation.

The proposed shared services model suggests the creation of four Centres of Expertise, with the preferred option locating finance payments in Ballymena, payroll in Belfast, human resources (recruitment and selection) in Armagh, and the finance income function in Omagh.

The implementation of shared services will provide common business services across the HSC but will have a significant effect upon the staff employed in the key functional areas outlined.

Bringing details to last Monday night’s monthly meeting of Ballymena Borough Council, Chief Executive Anne Donaghy said becoming a Centre of Expertise would mean 122 jobs, 32 of which would involve the securing of existing employment and the relocation of staff from other areas to Ballymena.

First to respond, Cllr Maurice Mills said: “I welcome this news, it’s very good news, indeed”.

And, the Councillor suggested that Council should show its appreciation of being listed as one of the four main centres by writing to the Minister, Edwin Poots.

Backing that view, Alderman PJ McAvoy said: “100 new jobs here and these will not be low paid - that’s to be welcomed to the economy of Ballymena.

“Poots should be recognised...it seems there is life outside Derry and Belfast!”

As part of the consultation process on the model and location of shared services for HSC, a series of open meetings are being held across the province with the local forum taking place next Wednesday, January 18, from 7-8.30pm in All Saints Parish Hall, Cushendall Road.