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31/01/2002
Harland and Wolff issue warning over workforce
Harland and Wolff (H&W) have warned that unless it successfully secures new orders, it will be forced to make further cuts to its workforce.
In an official statement released on Thursday January 31, H&W's parent company Olsen Energy revealed that the Belfast shipyard lost over £5 million last year. While the figure represents a much better performance for the yard than in 2000 – when losses totalled £28 million – recent contracts have only served to stave off the looming crisis rather than removing the threat of cutbacks.
The Ministry of Defence recently placed an order for two ferries, but without more orders, the shipyard will likely find itself in dire straits.
In recent years, the company has suffered from fluctuating fortunes. In 1999, a dispute with one of its biggest customers over payment for two vessels threatened to have serious consequences for the financial future of the company and jobs.
In the same year, a row over payment for an oilrig erupted between H&W and Norwegian firm Statoil, who claimed the rig was not completed in accordance with safety and structural requirements.
In 2000, the yard's future seemed the bleakest yet, as a major order went to a French competitor, leaving Harland and Wolff with no new orders on its books, which would have seen the closure of the company with the loss of over 1,700 jobs. Redundancy notices were served to 280 workers.
Harland and Wolff are one of Northern Ireland's biggest employers. (CL)
In an official statement released on Thursday January 31, H&W's parent company Olsen Energy revealed that the Belfast shipyard lost over £5 million last year. While the figure represents a much better performance for the yard than in 2000 – when losses totalled £28 million – recent contracts have only served to stave off the looming crisis rather than removing the threat of cutbacks.
The Ministry of Defence recently placed an order for two ferries, but without more orders, the shipyard will likely find itself in dire straits.
In recent years, the company has suffered from fluctuating fortunes. In 1999, a dispute with one of its biggest customers over payment for two vessels threatened to have serious consequences for the financial future of the company and jobs.
In the same year, a row over payment for an oilrig erupted between H&W and Norwegian firm Statoil, who claimed the rig was not completed in accordance with safety and structural requirements.
In 2000, the yard's future seemed the bleakest yet, as a major order went to a French competitor, leaving Harland and Wolff with no new orders on its books, which would have seen the closure of the company with the loss of over 1,700 jobs. Redundancy notices were served to 280 workers.
Harland and Wolff are one of Northern Ireland's biggest employers. (CL)
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29 July 2002
Harland & Wolff appoint new CEO
Harland & Wolff has appointed a new chief executive officer to succeed Brynjulv Mugaas who is stepping down from the role after three years. Bill Alexander, who took up his new role on July 19, only joined the company in June after moving from Mivan Marine in Antrim.
Harland & Wolff appoint new CEO
Harland & Wolff has appointed a new chief executive officer to succeed Brynjulv Mugaas who is stepping down from the role after three years. Bill Alexander, who took up his new role on July 19, only joined the company in June after moving from Mivan Marine in Antrim.
23 September 2002
Holywood Road SPAR recognised as 'best company owned site'
The SPAR & Jet Filling Station on the Holywood Road has picked up the top accolade of 'Best Company Owned/Managed Site in Northern Ireland' at the Forecourt Trader of the Year Awards 2002.
Holywood Road SPAR recognised as 'best company owned site'
The SPAR & Jet Filling Station on the Holywood Road has picked up the top accolade of 'Best Company Owned/Managed Site in Northern Ireland' at the Forecourt Trader of the Year Awards 2002.
10 May 2002
NI Executive decides on harbour land use
Harland & Wolff have convinced local Ministers to free up 80 acres of former shipbuilding land for a range of developments that will secure a more financially viable future for the company.
NI Executive decides on harbour land use
Harland & Wolff have convinced local Ministers to free up 80 acres of former shipbuilding land for a range of developments that will secure a more financially viable future for the company.
16 November 2004
800 jobs go after baggage handling company ceases trading
At least 800 people have lost their jobs today after London-Heathrow based ground services company Swissport UK Limited was placed in the hands of receivers early this morning.
800 jobs go after baggage handling company ceases trading
At least 800 people have lost their jobs today after London-Heathrow based ground services company Swissport UK Limited was placed in the hands of receivers early this morning.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
