The Sinn Fein president, Mr Gerry Adams, is seeking a meeting with management at the Bass Ireland brewery in west Belfast after reports that Bass plc is planning to sell the plant.
Mr Adams said the brewery's continued existence was vitally important. "The brewery on the Glen Road is the largest private employer in west Belfast. Its maintenance is crucial to the economy in the area. I will be seeking an urgent meeting with the management of Bass plc to ascertain their intentions with regard to the brewery."