Assistant Secretary, Paddy Mackel said:-

“NIPSA is delighted that the hard work carried out by the local library campaign groups has produced such a fantastic result. Over the last 12 months NIPSA played a significant role in establishing the campaign groups, providing material for them and helping to co-ordinate the overall strategy to retain as many of the libraries as possible. We pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of the people in each of those local communities who put in a lot of time and considerable effort to protect their local libraries. This campaign has sent a clear message that local people can make a difference and with support and organisation local voices can be heard”.

In response to the announcement that 2 of the libraries will close, Paddy Mackel went on to say:-

“It is a shame that any library will close. As local people made clear in the public meetings during the consultation period those libraries in Moneymore and Moy were an integral part of those small communities which deserve better treatment and greater vision from government often seen to be removed from rural communities”.

In conclusion, Paddy Mackel remarked:-

“This announcement should provide confidence to NIPSA members and the local community alike. It is clear that there is a role for unions working side by side with the local community to protect, not just local libraries and the provision of first class library services, but also vital pubic services which the community requires”.