Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Fight begins to protect public sector jobs - Sinn Féin

Published: 29 September, 2009

Sinn Féin MLA, Mickey Brady has said that we must all join in the fight to retain public sector jobs in Newry. Mr. Brady's call comes after Revenue & Customs announced proposals to reduce the opening of its public Enquiry Centre (Downshire House, Merchants Quay, Newry) to just 2 days per week - a significant reduction from the current service of 5 days per week.

Mr. Brady who is his party's spokesperson on welfare rights and the elderly said,

"Such a move will impact significantly upon the growing number of economically disadvantage people within our community - the elderly, those with disabilities, tax credit claimants and migrant workers.

"These proposals are also likely to put additional pressure on the Citizens Advice Bureau which is already under severe pressure due to the rise in unemployment in this area.

Mr. Brady added that it is also proposed to reduce the service in Lisburn to 2 days per week while the Banbridge office will be cut to just 1 day per week. At this stage there are no proposals for any changes in Craigavon but these are likely to follow.

"There will be no reduction in the service provided in Belfast which will in effect create a two tier service with those outside Belfast receiving an inferior level of customer service. Local people will receive a second class service whilst paying the same level of taxes.

"What will happen to someone needing an emergency tax credit payment if the Enquiry Centre is closed that day and possibly the next day as well?

"Travelling to Banbridge, Craigavon or more likely Belfast will be a much more expensive option for the current users of the Newry facility.

Mr. Brady said that the issue will be raised at Newry & Mourne Council by the Sinn Féin group and his party colleague Conor Murphy MP will also raise the issue with the British Treasury (as revenue is still a reserved matter.)