Jim Shannon, DUP MP for Strangford, has expressed concern over the proposed closure of the Benefits Office in Ballynahinch.
He said: “At this moment the Department is discussing the closure and issuing consultations. However, the closure of Ballynahinch office would be a backward step because Ballynahinch office is an extremely busy office with a significant number of claimants using it every day.
“I understand that the decision to close the office is purely down to funds and finances. The office is long overdue an upgrade in terms of the interior and exterior and that is something it seems the Department responsible can simply not afford.
“It is impractical to expect or insist that all claimants who used Ballynahinch Office are to use the Lisburn or Downpatrick Office. Both of these offices are already oversubscribed and fully utilised. The bus service to Downpatrick or Lisburn has already got problems and for many on benefits this would be another cost and outgoing they do not need.
“And some of those who attend Ballynahinch have severe mobility/disability and access issues and therefore it would be harmful to their needs for the Ballynahinch office to close.
“I will be seeking an urgent meeting with the Minister responsible to ask for a reversal of the decision. I have been in touch with the Minister’s staff on this to find a way forward that ensures the good people of Ballynahinch and area to have access to their benefits in Ballynahinch.”
Rowallene area Councillor Billy Walker also expressed his deep concerns saying: “As an elected representative I totally oppose this proposal to close these offices.
“If our constituents of Ballynahinch have to travel to Lisburn or Downpatrick to attend these relocated offices they will encounter hardships. And a lot of the SSO and Jobcentre staff and feeling the uncertainty at the moment.
“We are therefore seeking a meeting with the Paul Givan, the Minister for Communities. We just can’t let this go unchallenged. It just must not happen.
“People in Ballynahinch who really rely on these public offices providing a key service are reflecting on what it will really mean to have to travel probably with public transport to Lisburn and/or Downpatrick and the costs that go with it.
“There are just some people who for either mental health or physical reasons will not be able to use public transport.
“And if people start to hitch lifts on busy roads then that is just an accident waiting to happen. There needs to be proper provision of these services and it should be devoured locally in Ballynahinch.”
