30 Job Losses in Bangor

'30 Job Losses as Bangor firm closes'


"Around 30 people have lost their jobs as their Bangor employer falls victim to the dreaded new industrial rates bill.

The fate of Cordiners Windows appears to confirm that jobs will be lost and firms will go to the wall across Northern Ireland as rates begin to bite in the industrial sector.

I am very angry to learn that because of the industrial rates levy being imposed on manufacturing businesses in Northern Ireland. Cordiners Windows is about to appoint liquidators. Last year firms had to pay the first 15% payment and this year it is set at 25% a rate which many wish to set being capped.

This means the loss of some 30 jobs at Cordiners in Bangor.

Cordiners is a long established firm which has gained the confidence of many in this Borough and beyond. My sympathy goes to the 25 experienced and dedicated staff who are going to lose their jobs.

This is another example of what this government’s dictatorship is doing to this country. To me, they do not appear to be looking at any form of strategy or long-term thinking nor can they be considering the present or the future economic development of Northern Ireland. Figures predicted of some 30,000 job losses could happen if this increase levy were to take place.

I have no doubt this is only the tip of the ice berg for many companies in Northern Ireland and worry what the consequences will be for firms in Bangor and North Down.

I regard these industrial rates increases as yet another stick to beat the people of Northern Ireland into submission and indeed a form of blackmail. These beating sticks are increasing in number and to me the bundle is becoming too heavy.

But, this is of little comfort to those who will be out of a job with families to support and mortgages to pay – not does this seems to concern the dictatorship government we have. They are not answerable to the people in Northern Ireland so why should they care?

I propose that this Council write to the Secretary of State demanding that the industrial rates are caped immediately at 25% and this if done quickly enough could save many thousands of jobs?

I would also propose that this council consult with Cordiners Windows and offer what ever support we can and if agreed with Cordiners make representation to the Secretary of State on their behalf.

I am delighted that both proposals were accepted unanimously.