ECONOMY Minister, Conor Murphy, has said he will continue to support around 300 staff who have been impacted by the imminent closure of BT Enniskillen.

The contact centre is set to officially close in October, with around 80 per cent of staff accepting a Voluntary Paid Leavers Package. 

Sinn Féin MLA Áine Murphy recently asked Minister Murphy to outline what support the department will provide to support those impacted by BT's announcement.

In  a response, the Minister said he will support those who are looking for alternative employment, and help them, "identify opportunities for alternative employment, self-employment and/or re-training opportunities."

Minister Murphy said: "I personally met with the BT/EE to impress the importance of helping those that do not wish to voluntarily leave find other employment.

"While over 80 per cent of the BT/EE staff accepted the Leavers package, and others are transferring to BT’s Headquarters in Belfast, a number of workers will be looking for alternative employment.

"My department, and officials from Invest NI, will work with BT/EE, along with other local stakeholders, to support those staff impacted by this regrettable announcement.

"We will engage with Department for Communities Jobs and Benefits, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Enterprise Northern Ireland, Local Enterprise Agency and other local businesses and stakeholders, to provide advice and identify opportunities for alternative employment, self-employment and/or re-training opportunities."