Schlumberger To Axe 37 Jobs In Newtownabbey

Engineering firm Schlumberger is to axe 37 jobs at its site in Newtownabbey, Co Antrim.

The firm said the cuts were due to the downturn in the oil and gas sector.

A statement from Schlumberger said: "Unfortunately, a further weakening of the oil price has delayed the anticipated market recovery and a result, we are facing a reduction in activity and as a service industry we have to match our resources with demand.

"We have entered in a collective consultation process regarding a headcount reduction.

"During this period, Schlumberger Belfast management will meet with employee representatives to discuss options. We cannot say at this stage how many people will be impacted."

Deputy Regional Secretary, Jackie Pollock, from Unite the union said: "This announcement reflects the particularly sharp downturn in the oil and gas industry serviced by Schlumberger. Unite will be engaging with management to attempt to mitigate these job losses and to secure the best possible redundancy package for our members affected.

"We are calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to ensure that workers who have lost their jobs here, as in all other recent cases, receive the same support from statutory agencies as has been promised to those who lost their jobs at Michelin."

Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly said: "News that 37 jobs will be lost at engineering firm Schlumberger in Newtownabbey will come as a major blow to the workers involved.

"I would call on management at Schlumberger to engage with staff and trade unions to ensure that all workers are kept up to date in the coming days and weeks.

"It is also important that management put in place a programme of retraining and upskilling to ensure the staff involved are able to find alternative employment as soon as possible."

(CD/LM)