Agenda and minutes

The Chief Executive submitted the summons convening the meeting.

            Apologies were reported on behalf of Councillors Carson, Cobain, Howard, Mulholland, Verner and Whyte.

No declarations of interest were reported.

Moved by Councillor Beattie,

Seconded by Councillor McLaughlin,

Caterpillar Plant

This Council notes with deep concern the emerging news that 100 workers or more at the Caterpillar plant in West Belfast are facing losing their job.

These highly skilled jobs are vital for sustainable vibrant and inclusive economy.  Given the ongoing uncertainty over Brexit, this will only add to the pressure on the economy and local communities.

As a result, this Council, through the Lord Mayor’s Office, will convene the relevant government departments and trade unions to seek the retention of these jobs.  Furthermore, Belfast City Council’s economic development department will seek to develop a skills and education programme for these workers if the worst fears are realised.

Signed by:

Councillor Beattie

Councillor Donnelly

Councillor Garrett

Councillor McLaughlin

Councillor Walsh

            In accordance with notice on the agenda, Councillor Beattie proposed:

“This Council notes with deep concern the emerging news that 100 workers or more at the Caterpillar plant in West Belfast are facing losing their job.

In accordance with notice on the agenda, Councillor Beattie proposed:

“This Council notes with deep concern the emerging news that 100 workers or more at the Caterpillar plant in West Belfast are facing losing their job.

These highly skilled jobs are vital for sustainable vibrant and inclusive economy.  Given the ongoing uncertainty over Brexit, this will only add to the pressure on the economy and local communities.

As a result, this Council, through the Lord Mayor’s Office, will convene the relevant government departments and trade unions to seek the retention of these jobs.  Furthermore, Belfast City Council’s economic development department will seek to develop a skills and education programme for these workers if the worst fears are realised.”

            Prior to addressing the Council, the proposer sought its approval to alter his motion to provide for the deletion of the last paragraph and the insertion of the following:

“Belfast City Council will engage proactively with Caterpillar Management, relevant Government Departments, agencies and stakeholders, to gain further clarity of the situation.

Belfast City Council will assist the affected workers, in the event that their worst fears are realised.”

            After discussion, the Council passed the following motion, as proposed by Councillor Beattie and seconded by Councillor McLaughlin, as amended:

“This Council notes with deep concern the emerging news that 100 workers or more at the Caterpillar plant in West Belfast are facing losing their job.

These highly skilled jobs are vital for sustainable vibrant and inclusive economy.  Given the ongoing uncertainty over Brexit, this will only add to the pressure on the economy and local communities.

Belfast City Council will engage proactively with Caterpillar Management, relevant Government Departments, agencies and stakeholders, to gain further clarity of the situation.

Belfast City Council will assist the affected workers, in the event that their worst fears are realised.”

These highly skilled jobs are vital for sustainable vibrant and inclusive economy.  Given the ongoing uncertainty over Brexit, this will only add to the pressure on the economy and local communities.

As a result, this Council, through the Lord Mayor’s Office, will convene the relevant government departments and trade unions to seek the retention of these jobs.  Furthermore, Belfast City Council’s economic development department will seek to develop a skills and education programme for these workers if the worst fears are realised.”

            Prior to addressing the Council, the proposer sought its approval to alter his motion to provide for the deletion of the last paragraph and the insertion of the following:

“Belfast City Council will engage proactively with Caterpillar Management, relevant Government Departments, agencies and stakeholders, to gain further clarity of the situation.

Belfast City Council will assist the affected workers, in the event that their worst fears are realised.”

            After discussion, the Council passed the following motion, as proposed  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.