Caterpillar, a manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, has announced it is to axe 35 jobs at its facility in Northern Ireland.

The posts that will be cut include both permanent and agency staff.

Alliance East Antrim MLA, Stewart Dickson, said the news is "very disappointing".

Mr Dickson said: "I am concerned for those workers who will be losing their jobs, as it will be a stressful time for them and their families. Caterpillar remains a key employer in my constituency of East Antrim and remains a vital part of our manufacturing sector.

"I have contacted the Employment and Learning Minister and hope that Caterpillar will avail of the services in his Department that can assist the staff affected by this announcement."

East Antrim DUP MLA Alastair Ross said: "Any announcement of job losses obviously comes as an awful blow for the community affected and this latest announcement is no different.

"Whilst there is a recognition that the workforce at the three NI Caterpillar plants will fluctuate depending on global market conditions, it is nevertheless important that Invest NI and DETI engage with the company to ascertain whether any assistance is required to secure existing production lines or attract new work in the future."

(CD/JP)