Jobs are under threat after a publisher decided to close its print plant.

Belfast Telegraph owner Mediahuis has announced the outsourcing of its printing operations, prompting the closure of its Newry site.

The Netherlands-based group has declined to confirm how many jobs will be lost as a result of the decision.

However, it has confirmed the Bel Tel and its Sunday Life sister newspaper will continue to be printed in Northern Ireland.

Mediahuis confirmed to HTFP there “will be a number of people impacted” by the Newry plant’s closure, but declined to comment further after entering a 30-day period of “consultation and engagement”.

The company’s future print requirements will be fulfilled with the Irish Times group and other third-party providers under long-term contract agreements.

In a statement the publisher said: “Mediahuis has, over recent years, consolidated its print requirements from three previously owned printing facilities into one centralised site in Newry, and already has certain subcontracting arrangements in place with a number of third-party service providers.

“This proposed change provides the opportunity to further enhance those successful relationships and transitions the group to a variable print operating model.

“In the future, it is intended that the group’s titles will be printed with the Irish Times and other third-party providers, with the aim of optimising the distribution network and reducing transport requirements and carbon footprint.

“The group’s Northern titles, the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life, will continue to be printed in Northern Ireland.

“The proposal to close the printing facility is a direct consequence of reduced newspaper volumes and escalating prices including substantial distribution costs.

“It is expected that the print site will be vacated by the beginning of 2023.”

In a separate development, Mediahuis Ireland has also announced its intention to cease publication of its North Dublin weekly newspaper title The Fingal Independent at the end of October.

The publisher added: “We appreciate the impact of both of these announcements on those employees directly involved, which includes a number of highly qualified and experienced printing, mechanical and electrical specialists and members of our talented publishing team.

“We will commence a period of consultation and engagement to ensure that these employees are fully supported throughout the process, and we will do our utmost to communicate transparently and to manage the transition as efficiently as possible.

“Mediahuis believes in strong and independent journalism that makes a positive contribution to society.

“We remain fully committed to delivering trusted national and local journalism in a sustainable way throughout Ireland and our priority is on protecting the future of our business as we transition to a digital-focused news organisation.”