73 job losses at Antrim and Newtownabbey council amid Coronavirus pandemic

By Peter Moor

73 workers are to be cut from the Antrim and Newtownabbey Council workforce because of Covid-19.

The council say they are experiencing a significant reduction in their income, forcing them to make budget cuts.

Alan Perry is from the GMB union, which represents most of the workers on the council:

A council spokesperson said, "The facilities and activities which have been reduced or closed include leisure centres, theatres, events, and other revenue generating business."

"As a result, the Council is experiencing a significant reduction in its income. At the same time, our expenditure has not reduced, which has created an unprecedented financial challenge for the Council. As a consequence, it has conducted an urgent review of its finances.

"This means that we need to immediately take action to balance our budget and help secure our long-term future, as the current situation is unsustainable. 

"Yesterday, at the Council meeting, an Emergency Financial Plan was agreed.  

"Given our reduced operating requirements, it is proposed to decrease by 73 the number of agency and short service staff,  that are not essential to the operations of the Council at this time.  These proposals are subject to Trade Union consultation."