SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has said an investment in a food and drinks manufacturing facility in Sion Mills has the potential to be transformational for the village and the wider Strabane area.

Mr McCrossan worked with Mulrines to bring the company to the area, creating 54 jobs in the process.

He said that the investment and jobs which make a significant difference in the area and would hopefully show other companies the benefits of investing in the local community.

West Tyrone MLA Mr McCrossan said:

“I have personally worked with Mulrines for some time to show them the opportunity and potential that exists in Sion Mills, Strabane and right across West Tyrone and I’m delighted this manufacturing facility has now been confirmed. Mulrines is a local company that is expanding on both sides of the border and they have shown their confidence in this area and its people by investing significantly in this community.

“This new manufacturing facility will pump life into a site that has lain empty for nearly two decades, bringing much needed jobs to this area. For too long we have suffered due to a lack of investment and support and this project shows what we can achieve when as leaders we go out and sell our communities and people to companies like Mulrines.

“Sion Mills is a fantastic village, with a great community spirit and these jobs will create new opportunities for people living in the wider area and significantly boost our economy. I am in no doubt that this new facility will be a fantastic success, showcasing to other businesses the benefits of investing in West Tyrone and I will continue working with companies like Mulrine and advocating on behalf of this community to build a better life for everyone here.”