Spanish firm completes Harland and Wolff takeover

Spain's state-owned shipbuilder, Navantia, has completed the takeover of Harland and Wolff.

The deal covers the four Harland and Wolff yards in Belfast, Appledore, Methil and Arnish which employ around 1,000 people.

Navantia agreed to buy the business in December with regulatory approvals required before the transaction could be finalised.

Ricardo Domínguez, Chairman of Navantia, said: "The completion of this acquisition marks a significant milestone for Navantia UK and demonstrates our long-term commitment to UK industry."

All current Harland and Wolff employees have transferred to Navantia UK under their existing terms and condition.

The GMB trade union has welcomed the completion of the deal.

Matt Roberts, GMB National Officer, said: "Workers across all four yards will breathe a sigh of relief at finally being under stable ownership.

"But at GMB we will remain cautious. Without a steady drum beat of work, these yards will continue to struggle."

The major contract which Navantia will take over is for the construction of three support ships for the Royal Navy, a project known as Fleet Solid Support (FSS).

Navantia said the deal ensures the continuation of the FSS programme adding: "These vessels will be built at the Belfast and Appledore facilities alongside Navantia's facilities in Spain. Navantia UK plans significant development of the yards for the defence, maritime and green energy sectors."

Earlier this month it emerged that the shipyards would be put into administration as part of the deal.

That means that Navantia will not be stuck with the firm's legacy debts but it will mean that some suppliers will face financial losses.

Democratic Unionist Party leader and East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson said the administration move would leave many businesses in the Harland and Wolff supply chain in a "precarious position".

It would be "a hammer-blow to those companies with some owed significant sums," he added.

"I urge all involved parties, including the new owners and relevant authorities, to engage urgently and find ways to mitigate the impact on our local supply chain."