By Q Radio News
A US-owned factory in east Belfast is closing next year which could mean the loss of up to 88 jobs.
Crane Co which is headquartered in Connecticut makes valves and pipe fittings off the Cregagh Road.
A spokesperson for the company told Q Radio:
We communicated our proposal today to close our Belfast facility in the second half of 2021 in order to give all affected parties lengthy notice and especially to enable our associates to plan for the transition as best as possible.
Crane Co. intends to continue to employ some of the associates following the closure in a smaller office and will look for other employment opportunities for affected associates at other Crane sites as well.
Market forces have led to losses for the past five years, and despite significant investment in new technology, equipment and products, we have unfortunately come to this proposal.
We are committed to treating the small group of affected associates fairly and with respect.
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