Community unites over leisure centre job fears

Fears over job cuts have led to staff gathering at the Shankill and the Falls leisure centres in west Belfast for a cross-community march.

Nearly 50 jobs are said to be at risk, with other issues around terms of employment also raised.

However, management company GLL has refuted the concerns, saying workers are being offered redeployment.

Staff, trade union representatives and other supporters gathered at the leisure centres before a joint march to the peace gate at Northumberland Street.

Belfast boxer Carl Frampton tweeted his support for the workers, sharing details of Saturday’s event.

People Before Profit councillor Matt Collins, who helped organise the rally, said: “Staff have sent a clear message today that they will stand united across the divide in defence of our services.

“It is hugely significant, particularly given the current political period.

“We have all seen the stalemate at Stormont. Yet, here on the ground in west Belfast, we have Catholics and Protestants actively uniting across the divide.

“People are coming together because the reality is we have a common interest in fighting together to protect our services.”