Political leaders in Northern Ireland have met with GMB and Unite unions to discuss the future for more than 2,500 workers at Spirit AeroSystems, following its acquisition by Boeing.
Due to Boeing’s acquisition of the aerospace company, and Airbus’ intention to take over wing production, the unions claim that workers have had no firm assurances regarding job security.
Despite the talks with the First Minister, Deputy First Minister, and the Economy Minister, neither Boeing nor Airbus provided guarantees regarding the future of the non-Airbus production lines, which make up the majority of the workforce.
Alan Perry, senior organiser at GMB, said: “It is totally unacceptable that these workers have been left fearing for their livelihoods; Boeing and Airbus refuse to give assurances jobs won’t be affected.
“The uncertainty comes from the non-Airbus part of the business, which makes up 60 per cent of the overall workforce.
“Any dismantling of the business would be hugely detrimental to the long-term future of the Belfast business.”
The unions also pointed to the broader economic consequences, with the aerospace sector being a critical part of Northern Ireland’s economy.
Unite estimated that around 7,000 additional jobs are tied to Spirit AeroSystems.
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, said: “It’s a disgrace that workers continue to fear for their livelihoods and their futures.
“Workers have been given no assurances since the takeover was announced.
“Unite’s commitment to defend our members’ jobs, pay, and conditions is absolute.
“We will do everything necessary to ensure the Spirit workforce is protected.”
Both unions criticised the lack of engagement from key figures in the aerospace companies and the UK Government.
Susan Fitzgerald, regional secretary at Unite, added: “The Spirit workforce is being treated as collateral by corporate executives. That is not acceptable.
“Workforce reps cannot be locked out of decisions affecting their livelihoods.
“As a first step, the CEOs of these aerospace companies need to meet with workers and worker reps in person.
“It is highly disappointing that the secretary of state Hilary Benn has not yet met with unions. The UK government must secure the future of aerospace in Northern Ireland.”
Workplace journal has reached out to Boeing for a comment.