Unite the Union, Ireland Region

Union expresses hope that any prospective new owner will commit to local production and bring forward expanded investment

Jackie Pollock, Unite Regional Secretary in Ireland, responded to news that Bombardier was to sell its Aerostructures division globally which includes all five production sites in Northern Ireland.

“Today’s announcement will come as a shock to the entire Bombardier workforce in Northern Ireland. Many of the company’s 3,600 employees will be left asking what this will mean for their long-term future of their jobs.

“Unite will be seeking assurances from Bombardier and the government around this process. It doesn’t matter whose name is above the gate – what matters is that we safeguard jobs and skills in this critical industry. The UK government must stand ready to ensure the retention of jobs and skills at these sites, Bombardier is simply too important to the Northern Ireland economy to allow anything less.

“Bombardier workers in Northern Ireland are among the most highly-skilled workers in the sector globally – we produce a world class product here with a world-class workforce. Whoever the buyer is there’s an undeniable case for investment to not only sustain but expand production and employment into the future.”

Unite assistant general secretary for manufacturing Steve Turner added: “Bombardier’s Northern Ireland workforce is world class and a global leader in aerospace. Unite’s key priorities are retaining jobs and securing investment in any sale process.

“I have spoken to the business secretary Greg Clark about securing commitments from Bombardier that it will retain its aero structures division in Northern Ireland if no interested parties come forward and expect to speak to Bombardier’s chief executive later today.

“Unite is also in close contact with other global aerospace companies which could come forward as a potential buyer for Bombardier’s aero structures. Throughout this process Unite will be working to ensure that Northern Ireland’s proud tradition in aerospace continues to be a source for decent jobs for generations to come.”