06/06/2018

Wrightbus To Axe 95 Jobs

Serious concerns have been raised after it was announced that Wrightbus in Antrim is to axe a further 95 jobs.

The firm said it was a result of continued low levels of demand for new buses in the UK market.

SDLP MLA Pat Catney said it will be a "devastating blow" to workers and their families.

He said: "Earlier in the year I met with Wrightbus and trade union representatives to secure assurances that workers would not be left in the lurch as a result of previous job losses.

"I will now be seeking further meetings, to address the serious needs and concerns of workers.

"I've also requested meetings with Translink and the Irish Government to advance discussion about how we can sustain transport manufacturing business at this level on the island."

Alliance MLA Stephen Farry MLA said: "The news of proposed redundancies is deeply disappointing, especially for those workers who may be directly affected by it.

"The lack of an Executive means no Programme for Government or economic strategy are in place to help companies improve their prospects. The vacuum of decision-making and reform will only serve to damage our longer term economic outlook."

(CD/MH)

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