Unions meet with Economy Minister to discuss Shorts

Union representatives have met with the economy minister to discuss ways in which the number of job losses at Shorts can be minimised.

Talks have been initiated following a statement last week by Shorts parent company, Bombardier Aerospace, announcing a cut of 6,5000 jobs worldwide immediately.

For Shorts in Belfast the news signalled the loss of 900 jobs with another 1,100 jobs to go early next year unless the economy shows a marked upturn.

Speaking afterwards Jackie Nicholl, president of the Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions, said he was satisfied the executive would do everything in its power to help workers facing redundancy.

“There are obviously discussions taking place with the government and we welcome those and Sir Reg has informed us that they will keep us up to date.”

The job cuts have been attributed to the September 11 terrorist attacks in America and could mark the biggest job loss in Northern Ireland for decades.

Director of Communications and Public Affairs at Shorts, Alec McRitchie said: “These job cuts were totally unforeseen, totally unplanned. September 11 has deeply affected the airline industry worldwide. It has had an impact on our customer’s orders, particularly regional orders - some of which have been postponed, but not cancelled. It has been a very uncertain and difficult time for our customers and they have clearly taken significant steps to reduce manpower and resources.”

Mr McRitchie explained that the objectives of the union representatives who met the minister on Tuesday were the same as management’s at Shorts. He said that Shorts had been involved in talks with DETI minister Sir Reg Empey since they informed the government of major redundancies last week. They have also been in contact with the UK Department of Trade and Investment setting out measures of assistance Shorts requires in order to minimise job losses.

In order to avoid job cuts planned for next January, Mr McRitchie said although he believed the airline industry would prosper again, the industry would need to recover soon. He added: “It is vital for our own survival we take these steps now to ensure that we are in a position to take advantage of the upturn in the economy.” (AMcE)