Written question asked by David Burnside (Ulster Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 20 November 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 2 December 2002. It was answered by Ian Pearson (Labour) on Monday, 2 December 2002 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he plans to investigate the closure of the IFI/Richardsons Plant in Belfast; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: David Burnside: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he plans to investigate the closure of the IFI/Richardsons Plant in Belfast; and if he will make a statement. [83001] Mr. Pearson: I have taken a keen interest in the situation and have asked Invest NI to work with the liquidator to try to identify an investor for the Belfast factory. I have also met with representatives of the shareholders, the Irish Government and ICI, to stress the need for the Belfast workers to be treated in a fair and equitable manner following the closure and to secure their entitlements. In addition, officials from the Department for Employment and Learning have been in close contact with the Belfast employees to ensure that they are kept fully aware of their entitlements.

Secondary information