Unite union hosts election debate in Larne

Assembly election canidadates and Unite members who took part in the discussion at Larne Town Hall, including Danny Donnelly, Alliance, Maureen Morrow, UUP, Dawn Patterson, Green Party, Conor Sheridan, Labour Alternative Party and Martin Wilson, SDLP and Unite's Leo Mooney. INLT 17-201-AM

The meeting gave members of the public the opportunity to ask political representatives questions on a range of issues.

The main focus of the debate, which was chaired by UTV business editor, Jamie Delargy, was on employment creation policies following the recent spate of job losses in the manufacturing sector.

Unite regional secretary, Jimmy Kelly said: “These events allow members of the public to engage with politicians face-to-face and to put the pressure on for real action on important issues such as employment.

Taking part in the Unite discussion in Larne Town Hall are Jimmy Kelly, Regional Sec Unite, Jamie Delargy who chaired the evening, Jackie Pollock, Deputy Regional representative and Leo Mooney, shop steward. INLT 17-202-AM

“Some of the questions last night related to manufacturing and the job losses in the sector locally, and there was also discussion surrounding the recent cuts to the Larne railway line service, which has impacted on many people.

“There was an appeal for politicians to look at what can be done to make sure that the line doesn’t come under threat.

“Overall the event was very worthwhile and we have had some good feedback from those who attended. We now look forward to our second hustings event, which will be held at the Braid, Ballymena at 7.30pm on Wednesday, April 27.”