There was further depressing news for manufacturing in Northern Ireland this week with the announcement of almost 200 job losses at three companies.
Caterpillar is shedding 100 posts across its operations in Belfast, Larne and Monkstown while 42 jobs will go at Sensata Technologies in Carrickfergus and 48 at Invista Textiles in Derry.
This depressing news comes just a week after Michelin in Ballymena announced it was closing with the loss of 860 jobs, a devastating blow which raised questions about the Stormont executive's manufacturing strategy.
In particular, concerns have been expressed about high energy costs and the impact they are having on industry in the north although it has to be accepted there are a range of factors affecting business including market demand and competition from low cost economies.
However, this latest round of job losses should be ringing alarm bells at Stormont.
As reliance on the public sector decreases, we need to have a strong private sector to provide employment and build a prosperous economy.
What the Michelin closure demonstrated is that we cannot take it for granted that big name multi-nationals will be able to ride out any storms and continue to offer well-paid, secure employment to hundreds of people.
Another sign of difficulties with one of our biggest employers came yesterday with the news that Bombardier has asked staff to accept a two-year pay freeze, work an hour longer every week and reduce overtime in a bid to cut costs.
Clearly, this points to a worrying financial position and workers will be understandably anxious about what the future holds.
Trade union Unite is warning of a crisis in manufacturing and at the very least we need to see the enterprise minister and other senior politicians look at measures which can support industry and maintain jobs.
The hundreds of people facing the dole and an uncertain future want to see action and a clear strategy.
