MLA Robinson secures Magilligan Prison debate

Speaking at a debate, he secured in Stormont, the DUP man said: “ The Justice Minister must be made aware of important considerations.

“We must all remember that the loss of the prison will mean the loss of approximately 440 jobs and about £10 million that is spent in the local economy.

“In a written answer to me, the Minister recently stated that 332 of those 440 jobs were in the East Londonderry constituency.

“The argument that there would be no economic impact does not stack up with that admission, and neither does it tally with the Minister’s comment during a recent Question Time, when he told me: “I do not see how moving a facility from A to B is wiping out jobs or decimating the economy”.

“In the case of the East Londonderry constituency, it would certainly have that effect.”

He went on: “I ask all MLAs to support the debate to ensure that employment is retained and that our local economy in the north-west of Northern Ireland is supported in the most practicable and sensible manner.

“The Minister’s legacy can be very positive, not one of creating more unemployment and economic hardship in the north-west. I appeal to the Minister to give every consideration to the upgrading and redevelopment of Magilligan prison”.

After the debate Mr Robinson thanked the members who took part saying: “I am grateful for all those who have supported the debate and therefore the retention of this vital economic asset for Limavady and the North West in General” conclude Mr Robinson.