The Stormont Executive, represented by Economy Minister Conor Murphy, has supported the Spanish shipbuilder Navantia’s proposed take over at Harland and Wolff, and says that there is a the need for an experienced company to invest and retain staff.
Navantia is currently in exclusive negotiations to acquire Harland and Wolff, which has shipyards in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish, and is already collaborating on a Royal Navy project.
The collapse of Harland and Wolff’s holding company last month has raised interest in Navantia’s potential acquisition, particularly as it would position the shipbuilder advantageously in future London naval contracts.
Conor Murphy has been promoting the “dual market access” of the six counties to potential investors in Germany post-Brexit , offering unique trade benefits in both the EU and English markets.
“The purpose of the trip was a recognition that there is more explanation to be done so that people are fully aware and the intent is to roll this programme out across Europe.”
