Bombardier Wins Case With Boeing

Aerospace firm Bombardier has won a case in the US with rival company Boeing which put thousands of jobs in Northern Ireland at risk.

A decision was overturned to impose huge 292% tariffs on imports of its C-Series planes.

The wings for the C Series are made in NI.

A statement from Bombardier said: "With this matter behind us, we are moving full speed ahead with finalising our partnership with Airbus.

"Integration planning is going well and we look forward to delivering the C Series to the US market so that US airlines and the US flying public can enjoy the many benefits of this remarkable aircraft."

Sinn Fein northern leader Michelle O;Neill MLA said: "I welcome the decision to overturn trade tariffs being imposed on the C-Series aircraft. It represents a welcome victory for Bombardier, the Belfast workforce and their representatives at Unite the Union. 

"I have worked with the company and Union representatives over the past year to resist the economic threat posed to jobs at the Bombardier Belfast operation, and by extension to our local economy.

"I hope that the matter is now closed and that the company can secure the future of the C-Series, and by extension the workforce in their new partnership with Airbus."

SDLP Economy Spokesperson Daniel Mc Crossan said: "After months of campaigning done by Bombardier, workers and Trade Unions here, this decision is their victory. It will be a huge relief to many that these huge tariffs will not be imposed and that the vital role Bombardier plays in our local economy will be retained. 

"The SDLP worked tirelessly alongside others to help make the case to protect workers here. This is good news. I commend all for their efforts."

DUP MP Gavin Robinson described the news as "fantastic".

He said: "This has been a very difficult time for those staff who faced an uncertain future. Even in recent days there some pessimism had grown, but Bombardier's greatest strength here in Belfast is the quality of those workers and the product they deliver.

"Right from the outset management have worked tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome and I would pay tribute to their fortitude throughout this process. Whilst the joint venture with Airbus was a very significant development and offered great hope, this news means that the C-Series is fully ready for take-off and I firmly believe it can now maximise its huge potential."

(CD/LM)