SDLP West Tyrone Assembly Candidate Daniel McCrossan has called on Apex Housing to reverse their decision to close Bell Gray Nursing Home, Newtownstewart with the loss of up to 40 local jobs.
Speaking on Friday Mr McCrossan said: “I was extremely disappointment to hear of this decision that will see the vital care services in Newtownstewart dismantled over the next two years.
“Apex have cited a lack of demand but according to their staff, the 30 beds at Bell Gray have been at more or less full capacity for the past few years.
“I visited staff and residents today and this news will be a heavy blow for them. In their statement Apex have fallen short of guaranteeing job security for staff and living security for residents. I feel this will only come from the continued operation of services at Bell Gray.
“Both staff and residents have the full support of the SDLP and we will do all we can to prevent this closure.”