Job loss fears

DML in Devonport, UK, has given advance warning of 90 potential job losses at Appledore shipyard, which it took over from receivership in 2003. Jobs are likely to go progressively from early April due to a gap in shipbuilding work following completion of a large super yacht hull this month.

The job losses appear inevitable despite an aggressive programme of tenders for other work in a fiercely competitive market. DML is waiting to hear whether it has been successful in attracting a project to design and construct a patrol vessel at Appledore. Early notification of a successful bid would allow employment levels to be maintained close to the current figure of 180 jobs.