Jobs go as city's VSL store closes its doors

Voluntary Services Lisburn was set to close its doors today (Friday) with the loss of 18 jobs after it was forced to go into a company voluntary arrangement.

By The Newsroom

Published 30th Jun 2016, 12:27 BST

Updated 25th Aug 2016, 17:59 BST

VSL Board member, Councillor Alan Givan, said he was very disappointed the charity and limited company that has premises at Graham Gardens and its headquarters at Bachelors Walk, would no longer be able to serve the people of Lisburn.

VSL was set up around 30 years ago to help train long term unemployed and people on community service orders in the cleaning, restoration and refurbishment of pre-used furniture.

Mr Givan said, “I would like thank all the board members both past and present for their invaluable work within VSL.”

He said he was hopeful all 18 employees would get employment elsewhere and anyone who was owed money would also be paid.

Lagan Valley MP Jeffrey Donaldson described the closure as ‘disappointing.’ Meanwhile Councillor Jonathan Craig, a former board member said he was sorry to hear the news. “This organisation will be sorely missed,” he said.