Jobs and benefits boost for Ballymena

Ulster Unionist North Antrim MLA Rev Dr Robert Coulter MBE has welcomed a new jobs and benefits office to Ballymena, describing it as "a vital service in a particularly challenging time".

"I commend the Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Reg Empey, on his continued commitment to helping people gain and retain employment. It has escaped no-one's notice - particularly in North Antrim - that this is a painful time for many within our community, and anything which can help to lessen their burden is very much to be welcomed.

"This new £4.7million facility will be an asset to Ballymena, and will enable local people to access the assistance they need while they continue to undertake training and to seek employment.

"It is essential that we empower people to improve their circumstances, and I applaud the Minister on his ongoing work to equip the people of Northern Ireland with the necessary skills for an ever more competitive and demanding job market."