Robinson and McGuinness meet with Bombardier Board Members

First Minister Rt. Hon Peter D. Robinson, MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA have met members of Bombardier Inc.’s Board of Directors during the Board’s visit to Northern Ireland.

The visit by Bombardier Inc. Chairman, Laurent Beaudoin, President and Chief Executive Officer Pierre Beaudoin, and 12 Board members, includes tours of Bombardier’s manufacturing sites and opportunities to meet with some of the company’s 5,000 local employees.

Mr. Robinson said: “Over the last twenty years Bombardier has steadily built its presence to become a major employer in Northern Ireland and developed its Belfast site as a globally recognised centre of aerospace expertise. In choosing Belfast as the location for this Board meeting, the Board members have an opportunity to view first hand the capability of Northern Ireland’s operations and, in particular, the important contribution Bombardier’s investment of over £520million into the CSeries aircraft’s wing development program is making to the local economy.”

Mr. McGuinness said: “Bombardier Aerospace is one of our most innovative engineering and manufacturing firms and has demonstrated continued commitment to the local aerospace sector. Bombardier’s investments in its operations here, in facilities, training and R&D, have proven to be vitally important to our economy and, as the company’s presence has grown, so too have the associated opportunities for the local supply chain.”

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “Northern Ireland is regarded as one of the pioneering regions in the field of aerospace innovation. Bombardier’s investments are indicative of the international esteem in which the capability and talent of the company’s local operation and associated supply chain is held, and continue to contribute directly to Northern Ireland’s overall prosperity.”

Pierre Beaudoin of Bombardier Inc., said: “Our Northern Ireland operation plays an integral role in the success of Bombardier Aerospace. Our investment here and our people’s passion for innovation and engineering excellence have helped Bombardier develop world-leading aircraft products. We are delighted with the warm welcome we have received from Northern Ireland’s senior political representatives. This is a rare opportunity to speak with them on a first-hand basis about the local impact of our investments, as well as discuss the current challenges we face in the global marketplace and prospects for the future as we seek to maintain a competitive edge in the industry.”

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