Tyneside firm Wellstream set to axe 200 jobs
Nov 18 2009 By Adrian Pearson, The Journal
Micky Blench, GMB union organiser at Wellstream’s Wincomblee Road site, said last night staff were aware the problems hitting Tyneside were global.
He said: "These are highly skilled workers we are losing here. We think maybe by the end of 2010 if things pick up we could be seeing some of these workers taken back on, but it is still terrible news.
"The decision couldn’t have come at a worse time. It is very difficult to find work now, especially with other skilled workers being laid off elsewhere. Hopefully it is a short term measure."
Regional minister Nick Brown said a taskforce set up to help those made redundant was doing all it could to preserve jobs in the sector.
Alasdair MacDonald, acting CEO at Wellstream, said: "This was a very difficult decision for us and I greatly regret the impact it will have on our Newcastle employees and the local community.
"While it is unsettling for everyone involved, these measures are absolutely crucial to remain competitive and secure the long term future of the business. We expect the challenging market conditions to prevail well into 2010 but remain well placed to benefit once conditions improve."
