20/07/2009

Border Watch Office Creates NI Jobs

Over two dozen jobs are being created with the opening of a new Belfast office of the UK Border Agency.

Billed as a 'one stop shop' for immigration services in Northern Ireland, it was officially opened on Monday in south Belfast.

The facility will handle asylum claims, enforce immigration law and enrol foreign nationals on to the ID cards scheme.

Speaking at the opening Northern Ireland Office Minister Paul Goggins said it would bring real benefits to everyone involved.

"This office will help ensure that those who come to live and work legally in Northern Ireland receive the advice and support they need, whilst also dealing appropriately with those who are in Northern Ireland illegally."

The development is part of a UK-wide initiative and forms part of the agency's drive to create around 70 local immigration teams across the UK by December 2011.

Phil Taylor, Regional Director of the agency in Scotland and Northern Ireland, said the opening of the office would create 25 jobs.

He added: "Our local immigration teams have the kind of on-the-ground knowledge that helps the UK Border Agency to tackle the issues that concern the community."

(BMcC/KMcA)

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