East Belfast Ulster Unionist MLA, Andy Allen MBE, has welcomed the publication of the refreshed National Shipbuilding Strategy and called for the UK Government to ensure that Northern Ireland receives its fair share of ship orders and investment.

Andy Allen said:

“I welcome the publication of the UK Government`s refreshed National Shipbuilding Strategy. This could provide many opportunities for Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast. We have the people with the skills, talent and reputation to exploit those opportunities and revitalise the shipbuilding industry in this part of the United Kingdom.

“However to do that, Northern Ireland must receive its fair share of the 150 vessel pipeline for both commercial and naval ships over the next 30 years and a slice of the £4 billion which is forecast to be spent on a UK-wide basis over the next 3 years.

“The name Harland & Wolff is renowned throughout the world for its historic links to the shipbuilding industry and a pipeline of naval and commercial vessels on the orders books of the shipyard will strengthen our manufacturing industry and provide a much needed boost to the accompanying supply-chain companies.

“I will be writing to the Government welcoming the refreshed Shipbuilding Strategy and reminding them of just how much Belfast and Northern Ireland has to offer as part of this national strategy.”