Written question asked by Jeffrey M Donaldson (Ulster Unionist Party) on Thursday, 30 January 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 10 February 2003. It was answered by Ian Pearson (Labour) on Monday, 10 February 2003 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps are being taken to assist TK-ECC and its workforce as a result of the announcement of redundancies at its Dundonald plant.

Answer: Mr. Donaldson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps are being taken to assist TK-ECC and its workforce as a result of the announcement of redundancies at its Dundonald plant. [95533] Mr. Pearson: TK-ECC at Dundonald is facing a decision about making reductions to its workforce by up to 300 jobs. This is a commercial decision, forced on a company which is in a commodity market where margins are continually tight. Invest NI has been working with the company to help it achieve efficiencies and operational improvements. A competitiveness assessment has been undertaken to identify areas requiring development and improvement and Invest NI has offered assistance for a consultancy assignment aimed at improving the factory layout, production and materials handling processes. Regional staff of the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) have already been in contact with the company to discuss the services DEL can provide to support any employees who might be affected should the company be forced to implement staff reductions. While appreciating the early offer of help, the company has decided to defer detailed discussions with DEL regional staff until a decision has been made on the timing of any actual reductions which may take place and how they may be implemented.

Secondary information