Paisley expresses sympathies over job loss

Speaking after the news that the Joseph Hughes group in Dunloy has gone into administration and is making 147 staff redundant, Ian Paisley, the MP for the area said: “This is truly devastating news for everyone connected with the Joseph Hughes Group and again comes at a terrible time with Christmas just around the corner. After the disaster of Patton’s in the last few weeks, the news comes as a huge double blow for the people and businesses of North Antrim.

“Although this is not directly related to the Patton closure, it does not serve well for all businesses in the area. Last year I helped the Joseph Hughes Group with a Voluntary Agreement but it appears the Cash Flow has become too much of an issue. This really is a tragic scenario.

“Right now I am calling on Minister Stephen Farry to stand up and offer his support. All these employees who have been made redundant are entitled to a Statutory Redundancy Payment from the Department of Employment and Learning. Right now the process of this payment means it will take 10 weeks to come through. Well I am asking Stephen Farry now; right before Christmas, to help these people and to fast-track their applications. We can only imagine the sheer trauma and devastation they are already facing, I think a little help from our Government would be greatly appreciated at this time. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those involved in the Dunloy area.”