23 further job losses at Arntz

The Arntz Belting factory in Derry manufactures fan belts

A trade union representative has claimed that 23 jobs are to go at Arntz Belting factory in Londonderry.

Philip Oakes, from the trade union, Unite, said details of the cuts emerged after a meeting between union officials and the car parts company on Thursday.

Foyle MP Mark Durkan said: "It is disappointing for the families involved and the local economy."

The firm, which makes fan belts, went to a three-day week in December and sought 28 redundancies in March.

Mr Oakes said people at the factory were frightened for their future.

Sinn Féin assembly member Martina Anderson said the situation must be made clear.

"The company needs to clarify the long-term future of the plant because the remaining workforce needs to be able make informed choices about their own future.

"There's a lot of uncertainty among the rest of the workers," she said.

"We need the Minister for Enterprise, Arlene Foster, to clarify that."