News
Proposed Closure of Library Headquarters, Ballynahinch
03/03/2010
As members will be aware NIPSA met with Libraries Management on Thursday last, 25 February, to discuss the ongoing situation regarding the proposed closure of Library Headquarters, Ballynahinch.
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At that meeting NIPSA were advised that following representations it had been decided not to have a public consultation meeting, but to have an ‘open day’ on 9 March 2010 when users etc. would be invited to come to Library Headquarters. Irene Knox, Chief Executive and Helen Osborn, Director of Service Delivery will be available to meet ‘users’ or those who attend. NIPSA will make contact with the users and political representatives to ensure as many people as possible attend and express their concern.
Given this and the extended consultation period the timescales have shifted. As you are aware NIPSA is challenging the closure primarily on the basis the new Regional Headquarters for Libraries NI should be Library Headquarters, Ballynahinch. NIPSA understands the Economic Appraisal for a future location of Library Headquarters for Libraries NI will be considered by the Business Support Committee on 31 March 2010. NIPSA will be provided with a copy of this Economic Appraisal immediately following the Business Support Committee. This will then be considered by the full Board meeting on 29 April 2010.
In the meantime the status quo will remain, i.e. staff currently working in and out of Library HQ, Ballynahinch will remain there. If Library HQ, Ballynahinch is to close a more realistic date for closure is 31 August 2010.
Any voluntary severance arrangements for Ballynahinch will therefore not be considered in this current tranche.
The Board members of Libraries NI are also scheduled to visit on either 18 or 19 March 2010.
In response to queries regarding consideration of Stock Services, NIPSA were advised the current proposals are:-
2 larger units – Ballymena and Armagh
4 “Receipting Points” – Derry Central
Ballynahinch
Omagh
Belfast
It was further noted that if Library HQ, Ballynahinch closed for an interim period the stock currently receipted in Ballynahinch would be receipted in Armagh and Belfast.
It is clear no final decision has been taken. It is vital we keep up the pressure on all interested parties to secure the future of Library Headquarters in Ballynahinch. The fight goes on.
In closing I can confirm that Jim Wells, MLA has confirmed the Minister Nelson McCausland has agreed to meet, but a date has not yet been secured because of his involvement in the talks on parades. As soon as I am aware of a date I will keep you informed.
Yours sincerely
ALISON MILLAR
Deputy General Secretary
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