The MP said: “I am deeply shocked and disappointed to learn that ABP Linden intends to cease its retail packing operation at Granville on the outskirts of Dungannon.

“This decision will send shockwaves through the local community and beyond. These are skilled, hardworking people with families who depend on this employment, and for them this news will be devastating.

“Dungannon and the wider Mid-Ulster area has a proud industrial and agri-food heritage. The Linden facility has been a significant employer for decades, and its importance to the local economy cannot be overstated.”

Ms Lockhart added: “While the company has cited changing market conditions and the need to consolidate and reduce its packing facilities across the UK, that will be of little comfort to workers now facing enormous uncertainty about their futures.

“I note the company’s commitment to enter into consultation and to explore re-deployment where possible. However, I will be seeking urgent engagement with ABP Linden’s senior management to ensure that every possible alternative to redundancy is fully explored and that workers are treated fairly, transparently and with respect throughout this process.

“I will also be raising this matter urgently with the Economy Minister and other relevant stakeholders. There must be a co-ordinated response to support affected workers, including retraining opportunities, re-deployment support and wider economic intervention to protect jobs in Dungannon area.”

Northern Ireland’s agri-food sector is a cornerstone of the economy. Carla Lockhart MP added: “Decisions of this magnitude underline the ongoing challenges facing the industry and reinforce the need for long-term, sustainable support for both processors and the farming community.”



The company has confirmed that it will continue to slaughter and process locally produced cattle and sheep at the Granville site in Dungannon. Its facilities at Newry and Lurgan will not be impacted.