ONE OF NORTHERN Ireland’s biggest employers, Bombardier, has announced almost 400 job cuts.

The company said in a statement that it is seeking up to 90 redundancies, while 300 contractors, temporary workers and members of the company’s ‘Complementary Labour Force’ “will be released”.

The Canadian-owned aerospace and transportation company employs more than 60,000 people worldwide.

The company is currently undergoing a global restructuring, in which 1,800 jobs are at risk.

“Over the past four years, we have increased our total workforce by over 1200, primarily through our Complementary Labour Force, but unfortunately we now need to reduce our workforce levels,” the company said

We deeply regret the impact this will have on those affected and their families.

“As a result of the restructuring, our Belfast site will now form part of the new Aerostructures and Engineering Services business segment, which will specialise in the design and development of complex composite and metallic structures, including wings, fuselages and engine nacelles.”

East Belfast MP Naomi Long said it was a significant blow to the local economy.

The fact the company is still committed to commencing 40 new apprenticeships next month, also indicates confidence in the longer-term about the company and its Northern Ireland base,” she said.

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