Two North Antrim MLA’s, TUV leader Jim Allister and Sinn Fein’s Philip McGuiigan, have called for the issue of the land at the Wrightbus site to be resolved, as talks are said to be close to the purchase of the Ballymena firm.
Past negations with buyers fell apart when the firm couldn’t reach an agreement over the land, which is owned separate from the business, could not be reached.
BUT with talk of a purchase close again, with one interested party, the TUV and Sinn Fein MLA’s for area have asked ownership of the site to act now.
Sinn Féin MLA Phillip McGuigan has said the issue of ownership over Wrightbus must be resolved in order for a buyer to be found. The North Antrim MLA said:
“The people of north Antrim were dealt a devastating blow last month when it was announced that Wrightbus had gone into administration.
“There is now a potential buyer for the business which could save hundreds of jobs but once again the ownership of the Wrightbus site has become an issue in the negotiations.
“Sinn Féin would appeal that the issue around the ownership of the site be resolved to enable the buyout to happen and to safeguard the livelihoods of as many workers as possible.”
A Statement by TUV MLA Jim Allister has said;
“With things potentially moving towards a deal which will restore manufacturing at Wrightbus, it is imperative that the maximum number of jobs are secured. Towards this end it is essential that all parties strive to overcome any outstanding hurdles, be it the land or otherwise.
“The saving of the factory must not be lost over a squabble about the land. So, my message to all is ‘get it done.’”
Ulster Unionist leader and MLA Robin Swann has also spoken out saying;
“For the sake of the families, jobs and wider economy, a deal must be done on the land to ensure that all have a future, to allow Wrightbus to go into liquidation would be unforgivable. It’s now time to do the right thing!”
