The Ulster Unionist Party’s Finance Spokesperson, Steve Aiken OBE MLA, has voiced his concerns at the news that Bombardier proposes to sell off its Northern Ireland operation which employs 4,000 people.
Steve Aiken MLA said:
“The news today that Bombardier Inc. is putting up for sale their aerostructures division is a matter of considerable concern, not least for the 4,000 employees and their families.
“There has been no doubt that Bombardier has struggled in recent years particularly around the development of the C series. But, having successfully tied up with the globally leading Airbus company, it was hoped that Bombardier’s future within the aerospace sector was assured.
“It must be hoped that all the aerostructures divisions here in Northern Ireland can be retained by any new purchaser and that manufacturing and jobs can be maintained.
“Bombardier has had a proud history both in aerospace and in Northern Ireland, but we must ensure that the aerospace industry in Northern Ireland continues and thrives into the future.
“It goes without saying that without a devolved administration or even a manufacturing or industrial strategy for Northern Ireland, there is a lack of vision for the future. If ever there was a need to get the devolved administration to be back up and running and to support our manufacturing sector, it is now.”