Empey in talks with Bombardier and Nortel Networks

Currently in Canada as apart of his four day visit to North America, Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Sir Reg Empey, has met with management at Bombardier Aerospace and Nortel Networks.

Speaking from Toronto on December 12 the Minister said: “The purpose of the meetings was to help me assess, at first hand, current situations at both companies in the wake of the downturn in global markets and in the case of Bombardier Aerospace in particular, the impact of the attacks of September 11 on its international operations.

In Montreal, the Minister had discussions with Pierre Beaudouin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bombardier, Ken Brundle, Vice President Operations and James Stewart, Vice President Finance in order to discuss the company’s future production schedule and explored ways of mitigating some of the 2000 plus job losses announced in September this year.

Sir Reg said: “While the company must move cautiously in present circumstances, with sales of aircraft directly related to economic conditions, I was reassured by the company’s positive attitude and commitment. Ken Brundle will be in Belfast next week and we intend to continue our talks then.”

Following the meeting, the Minister was given a tour of the Dorval plant in Montreal where he was joined by members of the Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, travelling with him on his North American visit.

In Toronto, Sir Reg met Richard Lowe, Vice President Global Customer and Product Operations and was informed of Nortel Networks plans to retain the competitive position of the plant in Monkstown.

Sir Reg said: “The meeting was all about maintaining relationships with senior Nortel Networks executives. I have confirmed my commitment and that of the DETI agencies to work in partnership with Nortel Networks as it implements its workplan at Monkstown.

“Nortel Networks makes a key contribution to the Northern Ireland economy and, in common with many of our other companies, the workforce in Monkstown prides itself in offering top service and quality.” (AMcE)