SINN Féin MLA Maeve McLaughlin has said there is an urgent need for strategic planning to meet the needs of an ageing population.
It follows the announcement on Tuesday by the Four Seasons health care group that it is to shut its care home in Garvagh, Derry.
The news means up to 80 jobs are now on the line.
A further six homes are to shut across the North of Ireland leaving over 380 staring down the barrel of the dole queue.
Ms McLaughlin said: “The announcement that seven homes are to close will no doubt cause shock and anxiety for the residents involved, their families and the staff at the homes.
“I have been in contact with a number of families whose loved ones are currently residents of these care homes and they are obviously concerned.
“I would call on the company to keep residents and their families, as well as staff, up to date with the latest developments in the coming days and weeks.
“This highlights the need for strategic planning in the health service to deal with our ageing population in a manner which meets their needs and ensures adequate levels of care are in place.”
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