Job losses a devastating blow

Plans to axe 500 jobs at a Northern Ireland aerospace firm have been described as a ‘devastating blow’ not only for the affected workers and their families but also the local economy.

Thompson Aero Seating, which has plants in Banbridge and Portadown, said it was planning to make up to 40 per cent of its workforce redundant as a result of the downturn brought on by the Coronavirus crisis.

Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly expressed her shock at the news: “This worrying development will understandably cause serious concern among the approximately 500 workers and their families. For these areas with significant deprivation, news of another economic blow and yet more job losses is seriously demoralising.

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“Job losses of this magnitude will always be very difficult, but even more so in the context of a global pandemic.

“My first thoughts are with the staff affected and I welcome the fact the unions are involved. Protection for staff must be the first priority.

“I would also encourage the Economy Minister, as a matter of urgency, to pledge her support for staff in the weeks and months ahead.”

DUP MLA Jonathan Buckley called it “a devastating blow to Portadown”.

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The Upper Bann MLA said: “This is incredibly unfortunate news that is the inevitable consequence of the current global health crisis and its impact on the aviation industry.

“I want to extend my thoughts with all of those who have suffered from job losses at this difficult time, and I assure you that I will be exploring every opportunity to provide support measures to those affected in this industry.

“COVID-19 is presenting an enormous economic challenge across many sectors, and we need to explore innovative solutions to ensure a post COVID-19 recovery.”

Sinn Féin MLA John O’Dowd has said the announcement “while not unexpected is still shocking”.

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The Upper Bann MLA said: “Today 500 men and women have been told they are losing their jobs. This is part of the economic devastation caused by Covid-19 and is the other side of the human tragedy of death and suffering.

“The global airline industry has all but collapsed as a result of Covid 19. The economic realities of old are changing.

“A new economy must recognise and protect workers and their families.

“Our Executive must be given the tools, including fiscal powers, by the British Government to rebuild our economy and create jobs.”

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Upper Bann DUP MP Carla Lockhart also described it as a devastating blow ”for these employees, their families and the local job market, not just in Upper Bann but the supply chain across Northern Ireland”.

She added: “Many of these jobs came to the area when the aviation industry was booming. Sadly, the impact of Covid-19 has decimated this sector and today’s announcement is a reflection of that.

“I will be speaking with management and employees to discuss support measures and the way forward. The Government must look more strategically at the aerospace sector given the impact of Covid-19. We must ensure that families depending on this sector continue to have their livelihood. I know the Economy Minister is already aware of the pressures on this sector and has been making this argument in London.

“My thoughts are with the Thompson Aero workers at this time. It is vital they get all available support at this challenging time.”

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