Mr Lunn was speaking after the announcement by the DIY chain it would be closing five stores in Northern Ireland, with the Sprucefield location joining ones in Londonderry, Ballymena, Craigavon and Boucher Road in Belfast in shutting their doors. There will be an expected loss of around 300 jobs across the company as a result.
“This is concerning news, particularly for those employees and their families directly affected by the decision,” said Mr Lunn.
“The Sprucefield store always appeared to be a busy one, so this will cause distress in the greater Lagan Valley area. I will be seeking a meeting with my Ministerial colleague Stephen Farry to see what the Department of Employment and Learning can do about providing support and opportunities to those employees affected.”