Ballymena recycling plant: Workers to return next week

A County Antrim recycling firm, All-Tex Recyclers, has said that work will begin as normal on Monday morning.

The workforce of about 140 had been spent home on Thursday following a health and safety inspection.

A company spokeswoman said they had sent staff home as a precaution while some remedial work was carried out.

The SIPTU trade union representing workers at the factory, which is situated near Ballymena, said it was seeking a meeting with the firm.

In a statement the Health and Safety Executive NI said: "Whilst we are unable to comment on individual cases, HSENI can confirm that enforcement action is only taken where there is imminent risk of serious personal injury.

"HSENI remains willing to provide advice to any organisation to ensure the health and safety of workers."