A Co Derry jail could be closed with up to 450 jobs lost following a British government review, unionists claimed tonight.
Fears for the future of Magilligan Prison prompted Ulster Unionist Assemblyman Mr David McClarty to contact Northern Secretary Dr John Reid.
If the prison is closed the economic consequences in the area would be dire, said Mr McClarty.
He said: "The potential impact of 450 lost jobs is alarming and so too would the effect of even 300 families deciding to relocate."
The East Derry MLA's concerns have been prompted by the current review of the Northern Ireland Prison Service.
He claimed the review involves three proposals, two of which suggest closing Magilligan.
One scenario would be transferring the estate to Maghaberry Prison near Lisburn, Co Antrim and Hydebank Young Offenders' Centre in Co Down, Mr McClarty said.
The other suggests closing both Magilligan and Hydebank with transfer solely to Maghaberry, he said.
But the Prison Service has insisted it was too soon to speculate.
Any decision about Magilligan would only be made after consultation, a spokesman stressed.
PA