McGrath welcomes Collins Aerospace commitment to Kilkeel
SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has welcomed Collins Aerospace’s renewed commitment to its Kilkeel base.
It comes after the company announced the closure of a factory in North Carolina.
Mr McGrath liaised with the company ahead of the news, seeking assurances around the future of its site in Kilkeel.
South Down MLA Mr McGrath said: “I welcome the renewed commitment from Collins Aerospace to their site in Kilkeel.
“It is unfortunate that the company has had to announce job losses in other parts of its operation, but I’m glad that the 800 workers at their plant here have been assured of their futures at a difficult time for the company.
“Collins Aerospace is a major employer in this area and any job losses would have been a devastating blow for the community here.
“It is a testament to the highly skilled workforce that exists in Kilkeel and their importance to the business that cuts have been avoided.
“I understand that the pressures facing the company are related to a downturn in the aviation industry due to Covid and other related issues.
“I hope to see the businesses bounce back in the near future as international travel returns to pre-Covid levels and hope this will create opportunities for the Kilkeel plant to expand and grow,” added Colin McGrath.
