Caterpillar - Economy Minister's reaction

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 1st September 2016

Workers leave the Caterpillar factory in Monkstown outside Belfast where staff were told the factory is to shut with the loss of 250 jobs. Other such meetings were held at the companies other factories in west Belfast and Larne.

Picture by Jonathan Porter/Press Eye — Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 1st September 2016 Workers leave the Caterpillar factory in Monkstown outside Belfast where staff were told the factory is to shut with the loss of 250 jobs. Other such meetings were held at the companies other factories in west Belfast and Larne. Picture by Jonathan Porter/Press Eye

He said: “Caterpillar are clearly experiencing a significant and sustained downturn in their business globally which has seen their revenues decline by 21% in the last five years. T

“These job losses in Northern Ireland are part of the overall reduction of 10,000 staff across the company. The difficulties experienced by Caterpillar have been public knowledge for some time.

“As a result, we have intensified our engagement with the company both locally and in the United States to ensure Caterpillar were fully briefed on the benefits as a manufacturing base and of the complete range of Government support available to them at this time.

“Between 1 April 2011 and 31 March 2016 Invest NI has provided over £270million of assistance to manufacturing firms here and I am determined to continue to support our manufacturing sector. My Department’s Careers Service will provide individuals with tailored, professional advice and guidance about the options and support available to them including employment, training and education opportunities.”