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Sir Reg discusses training strategy with Bombardier

8 September 2009

As part of his four day visit to Canada, Skills Minister Sir Reg Empey visited Bombardier Aerospace HQ in Montreal.

The purpose of the visit was to discuss Bombardier’s training experience and business strategy during the current world economic recession and in particular the contribution of the Belfast operation to its global organisation.  This visit took place against the backdrop of ongoing workforce reductions across all of Bombardier’s sites, including in Northern Ireland, as a result of the impact of the recession on the commercial and business aircraft markets. .

The visit also allowed Sir Reg to experience the L’Ecole des Metiers de l’Aerospatiale de Montreal (EMAM), a Montreal-based training college for anyone wanting to work in the Canadian aerospace industry, and from which Bombardier and other local aerospace companies draw recruits.

Commenting on his visit, Sir Reg said: “It is a sign of the global economic downturn that Bombardier is having to reduce its workforce worldwide, but I note that in Belfast the reduction in permanent staff has, to date, been achieved by voluntary means.  I am convinced of Bombardier’s senior management’s commitment to continuing manufacturing in Northern Ireland.  

“Bombardier is also committed to the training and upskilling of its entire staff.  My visit to the aerospace college in Montreal has shown me how specialist training is being married to the needs of the industry to ensure the future sustainability of skilled manufacturing in this sector.”

In the wake of its staff reductions, Bombardier in Northern Ireland is still investing in training of its workforce and has indicated that it will be starting 40 apprentices this month under the Department for Employment and Learning’s Apprenticeships NI programme.

Sir Reg restated his belief that all businesses need to continue to invest in their future for when the economic upturn happens.  He said: “Training is one vital way that companies can ensure they are prepared for growth and apprenticeships are fundamental to developing and maturing talent and skills.”

During his visit, the Minister toured aircraft final assembly lines to which Belfast provides a range of major structural parts.  He also met Bombardier employees from Northern Ireland who have been selected to work abroad.  Northern Ireland continually produces people with exceptional knowledge and a great work ethic.  Sir Reg concluded: “These people are great role models for young rising apprentices and graduates and show that Northern Ireland training and education systems can deliver to world standards.”  

Relevant photographs available at http://www.delni.gov.uk/bombardier

Notes to editors:

  1. The visit to Bombardier took place as part of Sir Reg’s four day visit to Canada for the WorldSkills competition 2009.
  2. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on 028 9025 7872.  Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.