A Derry MLA has voiced his concerns over news of 50 temporary staff lay offs at a local shirt factory.
Foyle DUP MLA Gary Middleton has voiced his concerns following a decision by Smyth & Gibson shirt factory in Derry to temporarily lay off staff.
In a letter to employees, Smyth & Gibson said that after losing one of their main customers, they would be laying off staff for five weeks and paying them a rate of £27 a day for the first five days.
However, employees were told they would have to apply for benefits after this.
Mr Middleton said: “My Office is currently assisting several staff from the Smyth and Gibson shirt factory after they were contacted by management to inform them that they have lost one of their main customers.
"As a result of this, approximately 50 staff have been informed that a decision has been taken to temporarily lay them off for five weeks, allowing time to source further work from potential new clients.
"This has obviously caused much concern among the staff and fears for their future employment.
"I have already made contact with the company who are working to resolve the situation. I will continue to work with those affected and to provide advice and guidance where appropriate.”
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