Ulster Unionist Party leader and North Antrim MLA, Robin Swann, has called for all efforts to be concentrated on coming to an arrangement with potential buyers, following the announcement that Wrightbus has entered administration.
Mr Swann said:
“This is devastating news for the Wrightbus workers and their families. It doesn`t only affect those directly employed by Wrightbus, but will also have a huge impact on those employed in the large supply chain which feeds into the Wrightbus manufacturing operation. It`s yet another massive blow to Northern Ireland`s manufacturing base.
“Ballymena and its people have had to deal with the loss of Michelin, Gallahers and other manufacturing operations. It has been blow after blow and there needs to be a co-ordinated response. Words of sympathy won`t cut it.
“All efforts must now be made to ensure that a buyer and future is found for a highly skilled workforce. There is still an opportunity here that must be seized, but time is short. All efforts must be concentrated on coming to an arrangement with potential buyers.”