There are a wide range of issues to be resolved over the closure of Kilroot Power Station in Carrickfergus, according to the Alliance Party.

Over 200 jobs are at risk after the plant failed to win a major contract.

It now faces closure at the end of May this year.

Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson and his party colleague Stephen Farry MLA met with trade unions over the future for employees at Kilroot Power Station.

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Mr Dickson said: "Over this past weekend, 51 per cent of Northern Ireland's electricity came from coal generation at Kilroot, while only 26 per cent came from wind generation. After Kilroot is closed, where are we going to get that same ratio of electricity from?

"There is a skilled workforce employed at Kilroot. Some will take the opportunity to retire, while some will move to Ballylumford. However, some people will have to find alternative employment and it's important we assist them in whatever way possible. I will be looking to the Employment Service to assist with skills audits and retraining.

"Alliance will now be meeting with the utility regulator and the system operator to explore the future prospects for both Kilroot and Ballylumford stations."

(CD/MH)