Union warns 500 jobs at risk at Thompson Aero Seating

The Chinese-owned firm, which makes aircraft seats, employs about 1,300 people across four factories in Northern Ireland.

The trade union Unite said a redundancy consultation process has begun.

Regional Secretary Jackie Pollock told the BBC: “At present, workers must be furloughed before June 10 to receive support under the scheme; however, this is simply not possible where companies have contractual obligations for orders which are due immediately after this date.

“This is the case in Thompsons Aero Seating and means 500 workers now face the prospect of redundancy rather than support under the furlough scheme.”

The potential redundancies are in addition to 330 job losses announced in March.”

Upper Bann DUP MP Carla Lockhart said: “This is 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.

“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.”