Sensata Technologies to cut 160 jobs in Antrim - blames downturn caused by Covid-19

The firms, which makes tyre pressure sensors, today informed staff of its intention to commence a reduction of the workforce across production, engineering and support roles.

Earlier this year Sensata announced that its Carrickfergus factory was to close with the loss of 270 jobs.

The company said it would now engage in a collective consultation period with employees, during which proposed alternatives to compulsory redundancy will be considered.

Eric Sorret, vice president at Sensata Technologies, said: “As part of our long term planning it has become clear that the effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic will have a profound and lasting impact on the demand for direct Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems.

“Vehicle manufacturers around the world are significantly cutting their forecasts for the coming years, with global passenger vehicle demand set to be reduced by between 20 and 30%.

“This long-term reduction in market demand has already directly affected our Northern Ireland manufactured product lines and we regret to announce that we will be making a series of reductions to the workforce at our Antrim site during 2020 and early 2021.

“Like many businesses around the world, Sensata is adapting to a fast changing, challenging situation and our priority now is to support our affected employees and their families as we begin a collective consultation period. During this 90-day period proposed alternatives to compulsory redundancy will be considered. We will be providing advice and career transition guidance to affected employees.

“Despite these difficult operational decisions Sensata remains committed to Northern Ireland and will continue to invest in the development of ‘Smart and Connected’ products to support future growth.”