Fujitsu confirms 1,800 jobs could go

The Japanese company currently employs 701 people in Northern Ireland, with 451 at its Belfast operation.

They are among 14,000 workers across Britain and the north set to be affected by the announcement that the company is looking at axing up to 1,800 jobs.

Fujitsu has over recent years expanded its presence at Timber Quay in Derry.

It is understood that as yet, no information on where the axe will fall has been confirmed, with consultations now set to begin between the company and staff representatives. No staff are expected to lose their jobs before 2017.

The company have confirmed that the announcement has nothing to do with the Brexit vote.

In a statement, the company said today: “Fujitsu is planning a transformation program that will enable it to better support customers in the era of digital transformation.

“The company today advised its employee representative forum of plans to restructure the organisation in order to provide better service and respond more quickly to customer needs.

“As part of the programme, Fujitsu plans to streamline operations in order to remain competitive in the market.

“Proposed measures include changes which would result in a reduction of up to 1,800 jobs in the UK. All affected employees will be offered guidance and support and Fujitsu is establishing a consultation process with elected employee representatives.”

Fujitsu in Northern Ireland develop tailor-made solutions using their portfolio of IT Services.

The company consult, design, build, operate and support business solutions with the aim to increase efficiency, improve agility and reduce cost.