New post sorting centre welcomed

High tech centre aims to improve efficiency of NI service

Northern Ireland's first and deputy first ministers have welcomed the opening of Royal Mail's new £40m sorting centre in Northern Ireland.

David Trimble and Seamus Mallon said the centre at Mallusk in Newtownabbey would bring significant benefits to Northern Ireland.

Attending the official opening of the new centre, they described the investment as a huge vote of confidence in Northern Ireland by a world class company.

Mr Trimble said: "This new facility will bring considerable benefits to all our people, providing worthwhile employment for 800 people, including 120 new jobs and faster handling times for post both for Northern Ireland and Great Britain."

Praising the company for its commitment to the community, Mr Mallon added: "It has through many difficult years provided a quality service in terms of efficiency and reliability to its business and residential customers."

Royal Mail said the new high-tech sorting system can process two million letters and parcels a day.